Automated banking machine with bezel including an opening and a movable gate

ABSTRACT

An automated banking machine ( 10 ) is provided. The automated banking machine may include a fascia ( 50 ) in operative connection with a frame ( 110 ). The machine may include a plurality of hardware devices which are accessible through the fascia. The hardware devices may include a cash dispenser ( 24 ), receipt printer ( 20 ), and a card reader ( 22 ). The fascia may include replaceable bezels ( 550,552 ) with apertures therein for providing access to hardware devices. The bezels may be operative to float with respect to the fascia and hardware devices to automatically align hardware devices with the bezels. In addition the hardware devices may include movable portions which are operative to automatically align with the bezels. The bezels may include ramps, ribs, or other angled surfaces which guide the hardware devices into alignment with the openings in the bezels.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10/797,620 nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,962,285 filed Mar. 10, 2004, which claims benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/453,667 filed Mar. 10, 2003,all of which applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to automated banking machines. Specifically thisinvention relates to an automated banking machine system and methodwhich is operative to securely carry out a plurality of transactionsincluding the dispense of cash and other transfers of value responsiveto user inputs.

BACKGROUND ART

Automated banking machines are well known. A common type of automatedbanking machine used by consumers is an automated teller machine(“ATM”). ATMs enable customers to carry out banking transactions. Commonbanking transactions that may be carried out with ATMs include thedispensing of cash, the making of deposits, the transfer of fundsbetween accounts, the payment of bills and account balance inquiries.The types of banking transactions a customer can carry out aredetermined by capabilities of the particular banking machine and theprogramming of the institution operating the machine. Other types ofautomated banking machines may allow customers to charge againstaccounts or to transfer funds. Other types of automated banking machinesmay print or dispense items of value such as coupons, tickets, wageringslips, vouchers, checks, food stamps, money orders, scrip or traveler'schecks. For purposes of this disclosure an ATM, an automated bankingmachine, or an automated transaction machine shall encompass any devicewhich carries out transactions including transfers of value.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

It is an object of an exemplary form of the present invention to providean automated banking machine at which a user may conduct transactions.

It is an object of an exemplary form of the present invention to providean automated banking machine at which a user may dispense cash.

Further objects of exemplary forms of the present invention will be madeapparent in the following Best Modes for Carrying Out Invention and theappended claims.

The foregoing objects may be accomplished in an exemplary embodiment byan automated banking machine that includes output devices such as adisplay screen and receipt printer. The machine may further includeinput devices such as a touch screen, keyboard, keypad, function keys,and a card reader. The automated banking machine may further includetransaction function devices such as a cash dispenser mechanism forsheets of currency, a depository mechanism and other transactionfunction devices which are used by the machine in carrying out bankingtransactions including transfers of value. In the exemplary embodimentthe automated banking machine may include at least one computer. Thecomputer may be in operative connection with the output devices and theinput devices, as well as with the cash dispenser mechanism, depositorymechanism and other physical transaction function devices in the bankingmachine. The computer may further be operative to communicate with ahost system located remotely from the machine.

In the exemplary embodiment, the computer may include softwarecomponents that are executable therein. The software components of theautomated banking machine may be operative to cause the computer tooutput user interface screens through a display device of the machine.The user interface screens may include consumer screens which provide aconsumer with information for performing consumer operations such asbanking functions with the machine. The user interface screens mayfurther include service screens which provide an authorized userservicing the machine with information for performing service andmaintenance operations with the machine. In addition the machine mayinclude software components operative in the computer for controllingand communicating with hardware devices of the machine including theinput devices, output devices and the transaction function devices.

In an exemplary embodiment, the automated banking machine may include afascia with bezels and associated hardware components which areoperative to automatically align with each other. In further exemplaryembodiments, the automated banking machine may include an exteriorsurface comprised of panels which are securely mounted to the frame ofthe machine without the use of fasteners such as screws and bolts. Infurther exemplary embodiments, sheet metal parts of the machine may beassembled without the use of a jig and external fasteners by insertingtabs from one part into slots of another part and bending the tabs atabout ninety degrees to urge the parts together into fixed engagement.

In further exemplary embodiments, the automated banking machine mayinclude a passageway sensor which is operative to detect blockages inpassageways and is operative to resist missing the detection ofblockages as a result of foreign light sources. In addition, exemplaryembodiments of the automated banking machine may include a cassette forreceiving deposited items which is operative to enable the detection ofunauthorized access to the items in the cassette. Exemplary embodimentsof the cassette and associated bracketry may also be operative to closethe cassette upon removal from the machine and may be operative toprevent a corresponding depository mechanism from being moved to aservice position while the cassette is installed in the machine.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view representative of an exemplary embodimentof an automated banking machine.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of an automatedbanking machine.

FIGS. 3-17 show exemplary embodiments of a frame of an automated bankingmachine.

FIGS. 18-24 show exemplary embodiments of a swing arm assembly of anautomated banking machine.

FIGS. 25-27 show exemplary embodiments of leveling legs for an automatedbanking machine.

FIGS. 28-30 show exemplary embodiments of an adjustable bezel for afascia of an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 31-34 show exemplary embodiments of a floating bezel for a fasciaof an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 35-43 show exemplary embodiments of a tilting fascia of anautomated banking machine.

FIGS. 44-49 show exemplary embodiments of replaceable bezels for afascia of an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 50-53 show an exemplary embodiment of a task lighting device for afascia of an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 54 and 55 show exemplary embodiments of a movable gate for a bezelof an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 56-62 show exemplary embodiments of a receipt printer of anautomated banking machine.

FIGS. 63-74 show exemplary embodiments of a method of providing uniformpatterns for performing transactions for a plurality of different typesof automated banking machines.

FIGS. 75-78 show an exemplary embodiment of a system for mountingcomponents in an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 79 and 80 show exemplary embodiments of features for mountingcables in an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 81 and 82 show an exemplary embodiment of a trim cap linkagesystem for an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 83-101 show exemplary embodiments of devices for mountingcomponents in an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 102-107 show an exemplary embodiment of an enclosure of anautomated banking machine.

FIGS. 108-110 show an exemplary embodiment of a passageway sensor in anautomated banking machine.

FIGS. 111-119 show an exemplary embodiment of a cassette for receivingdeposited items in an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 120 and 121 show an exemplary embodiment of sheet metal parts ofthe machine being mounted together using tabs and slots of the parts.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, there is showntherein a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an automatedbanking machine 10. Here the automated banking machine 10 may include atleast one output device 34 such as a display device 12. The outputdevice 12 may be operative to provide a consumer with a user interface18 that may include a plurality of screens or other outputs includingselectable options for operating the machine. The exemplary embodimentmay further include other types of output devices such as a receiptprinter 20, statement printer 21, speakers, or any other type of devicethat is capable of outputting visual, audible, or other sensoryperceptible information.

The exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine 10 may includea plurality of input devices 32 such as an encrypting pin pad (EPP) withkeypad 16 and function keys 14 as well as a card reader 22 and/or barcode reader 23. The exemplary embodiment of the machine 10 may furtherinclude or use other types of input devices, such as a touch screen,microphone, or any other device that is operative to provide the machinewith inputs representative of user instructions or information. Themachine may also include one or more biometric input devices such as afingerprint scanner, an iris scanner, facial recognition device, handscanner, or any other biometric reading device which may be used toacquire a biometric input that can be used to identify a user.

The exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine 10 may furtherinclude a plurality of transaction function devices which may includefor example a cash dispenser 24, a depository mechanism 26, a cashrecycler mechanism, or any other type of device which is operative toperform transaction functions involving transfers of value.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of components which may be included or maybe in communication with the automated banking machine 10. Exemplaryembodiments of the automated banking machine 10 may be operative tocommunicate with a transaction processing server which is referred toherein as an ATM host banking system 42. Such an ATM host banking system42 may be operative to authorize the automated banking machine 10 toperform transaction functions for users such as withdrawing cash from anaccount through operation of the cash dispenser 24, depositing checks orother items with the depository mechanism 26, performing a balanceinquiry for a financial account and transferring value between accounts.

In addition, the machine 10 may include at least one computer 30. Thecomputer 30 may be in operative connection with a plurality ofcomponents 44. Such components may include both hardware devices 46 andsoftware components 40. The hardware devices 46 may correspond to thepreviously described input device(s) 32, output device(s) 34, andtransaction function device(s) 36. In an exemplary embodiment, atransaction function device may be operative to perform a transactionfunction in response to at least one input through at least one of theinput devices.

In exemplary embodiments the machine may include a secure chest or safe52. Portable articles such as cash, notes, bills, checks, deposits orother items of value may be stored in the chest. In addition inexemplary embodiments portions of the computer 30 may be stored in thesafe such as the mother board, processor, RAM, cd-rom drive, floppy diskdrive, hard drive and other components of the computer 30. In furtherexemplary embodiments, the computer 30 may be stored outside the chest52.

In an exemplary embodiment, the software components may correspond toone or more terminal control software components that are operative inthe computer 30. The terminal control software components may beoperative to control the operation of the machine by both a consumer andan authorized user such as a service technician. For example suchterminal control software components may include applications whichenable a consumer to dispense cash, deposit a check, or perform othertransaction functions with the machine. In addition the terminal controlsoftware components may include applications which enable a servicetechnician to perform configuration, maintenance, and diagnosticfunctions with the machine.

In exemplary embodiments of the machine, the previously describedcomputer 30 and hardware components 46 may mounted within an enclosure.Such an enclosure may include a frame. The computer and components ofthe machine may be securely mounted to the frame. As shown in FIG. 1,the machine may include a fascia 50 which provides access to one or moreof the hardware components by a user of the machine and also concealsthe internal components of the machine and the frame from the view of aconsumer

FIGS. 3-6 show an exemplary embodiment of a frame 110 for an automatedbanking machine enclosure. The frame 110 may be comprised of fourvertical struts 100 rigidly attached to a safe or chest 102. Horizontalstruts 104 may be attached to each pair of vertical struts. A diagonalstrut 106 may be attached to both horizontal struts to add stiffness.This described exemplary embodiment of the frame is operative to allowaccess to five sides of the enclosure to make the assembly and servicingof the machine more convenient to a technician. As shown in FIGS. 4 and5 once the automated banking machine is assembled and tested, beautypanels 120-128 may be placed in operative connection with the frame toenclose the top portion of the machine and also to cover the sides ofthe ATM safe 102. In the described exemplary embodiment, the beautypanels may be hung onto the frame without the use of separate connectorsor fasteners such as screws or bolts to hold these panels in place tothe frame. The panels may be operative to butt together and, along witha rear access door 129, hold each other in place. The panels may includetabs, slots, or other interlocking features to enable the panels to besecurely mounted to the frame without tools. As shown in FIG. 6, theouter panels 120-128 may be removed from the frame 110 without tools toprovide access to service the upper enclosure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the vertical struts 100 may be mounted tothe chest 102 using bolts, screws or other fasteners. In an exemplaryembodiment the screws may be partially screwed into the safe prior tomounting the vertical struts. The vertical struts may then be placedadjacent the chest such that heads of the screws pass through aperturesin the strut. The strut may then be moved downwardly to engage thescrews within slots extending upward in the strut from the apertures.Once installed in this manner, the screws may be tightened to rigidlymount the vertical struts to the chest.

FIG. 7 and 8 show the engagement of a horizontal strut 104 to a verticalstrut 100. As shown in FIG. 7, the horizontal strut 104 may include twofingers 144 which interlock and self-locate the horizontal strut withthe vertical slots 146 extending downwardly from the upper portions ofthe vertical struts 100. The horizontal strut 104 may further include aleg 140 which passes behind the vertical strut 100. As shown in FIG. 8,once the horizontal strut is engaged with the vertical strut, a screw148 may be placed through apertures in the vertical strut and leg of thehorizontal strut to lock the struts together. As shown in FIG. 9, theends of the diagonal strut 106 may be mounted using screws or otherfasteners to the oppose ends of the two horizontal struts 104.

FIGS. 10-12 show an exemplary system and method for mounting the panelsto the frame of the machine. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the lower sidepanels 124, 128 may slide downward onto vertically extending tabs 150 oftwo vertical struts 100. The fingers may pass into horizontal apertures152 in the top edges 154 of the side panels 124, 128. As shown in FIG.12, the vertical struts 100 may further include tabs 156 which hookunderneath a horizontal bracket 158 located on the inside surface of theside panels 124, 128. The horizontal bracket may include horizontalslots 160 which are positioned to receive the tabs 156.

As shown in FIG. 13, once the lower panels 124, 128 have been mounted onthe vertical struts, the upper panels 122, 126 may by mounted on thevertical struts. In this described exemplary embodiment, the upperpanels are operative to prevent the lower panels from being removed fromthe frame by blocking the lower panels from moving upwardly to disengagefrom the vertical struts.

As sown in FIG. 14, the upper panels 122, 126 may include apertures 162in a lower edge 164 of the panels 122, 126. When the upper panels areslid downward along the frame, the apertures 162 are operative toreceive the vertically extending tabs 150 of the vertical struts 100therethrough. In addition, as shown in FIG. 15, the vertical struts mayfurther include vertically extending tabs 166 which are operative tohook inside a groove 170 located inside the upper edge 168 of the upperpanels 122, 126.

FIG. 16 shows the top panel 120 being mounted to the frame 110. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, the top panel when mounted to the frameis operative to prevent the side panels from being dismounted from theframe by blocking the side panels from moving upwardly to disengage fromthe vertical struts. The top panel may include tabs 172 which areoperative to hook into slots 174 in the horizontal struts 104 of theframe 110. FIG. 17 shows a tab 172 fully engaged with a slot 174 of thehorizontal strut 104. With the top panel in this engaged position, theside of top panel 120 includes a portion 176 which is located directlyabove portions 178 of the side panel 122 and is operative to prevent theside panel from moving upwardly and dismounting from the frame. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, the portions 178 of the side panel 122may correspond to a flange or projection which extends underneath thetop panel 120. In an alternative exemplary embodiments the top panel maybe relatively higher than the side panel 122 and may have sufficientwidth as to extend above the upper edge 168 of the side panel 122 toblock the side panels from moving upwardly.

Referring back to FIG. 5, when the door 129 is in the closed position,the top edge 180 of the door is operative to block the top panel 120from sliding so as to unhook the tabs 172 (FIG. 17) in the top panelfrom the horizontal struts 104 of the frame. In this described exemplaryembodiment, the door 129 may be locked in a closed position therebypreventing each of the top panel, upper side panels and bottom sidepanels from being removed. When the door 129 is opened the top panel 120is enabled to be removed from the frame 110. When the top panel isremoved the upper side panels are enabled to be removed from the frame110. When the upper side panels are removed the bottom side panels areenabled to be removed from the frame.

In this described exemplary embodiment, the panels may be mounted to theframe without the use of separate fasteners such as screws and withoutthe use of tools. The service door 129 is operative to prevent thepanels from being removed when the door is in the closed position and isoperative to enable the panels to be removed when the door is in theopen position. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the automatedbanking machine may include other systems and methods for securing thepanels to the frame including the use of fasteners or other connectiondevices.

Referring back to FIG. 5, an exemplary embodiment of the automatedbanking machine may include a service door 129 which includes a window200. The window may be used to view a display device such as a servicemonitor located within the enclosure. FIG. 18 shows an example of anautomated banking machine 10 with the service door 129 in the openposition. Within the machine may be mounted a service monitor swing armassembly 202 which is operative to support a service monitor 204 in aplurality of different positions. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, theswing arm assembly 202 is operative to orient the service monitor 204 ina position adjacent the opening 206 of the machine. When the door 129 isclosed, the window 200 of the service door 129 will be positioned infront of the monitor to enable all or at least portions of the displayscreen of the service monitor to be visible through the window 200.

FIG. 19 shows a side view of the service monitor mounted to the swingarm assembly 202. In this described exemplary embodiment, the swingassembly may be operative to pivot independently at a plurality ofpoints. In the exemplary embodiment, the assembly 202 may include aframe bracket 210 that is operative to mount to a vertical strut of theautomated banking machine frame. The frame bracket may be in pivotingconnection with a swing arm 212. For example, the swing arm may beoperative to rotate with respect to a pin 214 in operative connectionthrough portions of the frame bracket 210 and swing arm 212. As shown inFIG. 20, the swing arm may be operative to rotate 90 degrees withrespect to the frame bracket to place the service monitor 204 outsidethe opening 206 to the interior of the machine.

Referring back to FIG. 19, the assembly 202 may further include amonitor bracket 216 that is operative to attach the service monitor 204to the assembly 202. In this described exemplary embodiment the monitorbracket 216 may be in pivoting connection with the swing arm 212. Forexample, the monitor bracket 216 may be operative to rotate with respectto a pin 218 in operative connection through portions of the monitorbracket 216 and swing arm 212. For example, with the swing arm rotatedto extend outward as described previously (FIG. 20), the monitor bracketmay be operative to rotate the monitor about 90 degrees (FIG. 21) withrespect to the swing arm 212. In addition, in exemplary embodiments, themonitor bracket may be operative to rotate the monitor 204 about 180degrees (FIG. 22) with respect to the swing arm 212.

In addition to being operative to rotate the service monitor about aplurality of vertical axes, an exemplary embodiment of the assembly maybe operative to adjust the vertical tilt of the service monitor. Forexample as shown in FIG. 23, the monitor bracket 216 may be operative topivot along a horizontal axis to tilt the service monitor 204downwardly. FIG. 23 shows an example of the assembly being orientated totilt the service monitor downwardly by about thirteen degrees. However,it is to be understood that in alternative exemplary embodiments theservice monitor swing arm assembly may be operative to tilt the monitorat other smaller and/or larger angles. Further exemplary embodiments ofthe assembly may be operative to rotate the monitor along one or morevertical axes to a plurality of different angles inwardly and outwardlywith respect to the frame of the machine.

Referring back to FIG. 19, the assembly may include one or more springplungers or other locking devices which are operative to lock therotational positions of the assembly. For example a spring plunger 220may be biased to move into a locked position which locks the swing arm212 in its current rotational position relative the frame bracket 210.Pulling the spring plunger 220 may be operative to place the springplunger 220 into an unlocked position which enables the swing arm 212 torotate freely with respect to the frame bracket 210. The assembly mayfurther include additional spring plungers 222 or other locking devicesat other pivoting points as well.

As shown in FIG. 24, an exemplary embodiment of the service monitorswing arm assembly may further include a support bracket 224 for aservice keyboard 226 in pivoting connection with the monitor bracket216. Such a support bracket 224 may be operative to rotate about ahorizontal axis to tilt the keyboard 226 at a plurality of differentangles. Such angles for example may include orienting the keyboard 226at a vertical angle 230; a 30 degree angle 232 from vertical; and a 107degree angle 234 from vertical.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may include aplurality of legs under the chest which are operative to support themachine above a floor or other surface. In an exemplary embodiment suchlegs may be adjustable in height to account for surfaces which are notlevel or are uneven. In addition in exemplary embodiments the legs maybe adjustable in height from within the chest. FIG. 25 shows anexemplary embodiment of a leveling leg 250 in operative connection withthe chest 102 of the machine. As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27 the levelingleg may include a threaded shaft 252 that is operative to screw up ordown within a threaded hole 254 through the bottom 256 of the chest. Theleg may include a base or foot end 257 that is operative to engage andrest on a floor or other support surface. The foot 257 can comprise aflange extending in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis of theshaft 252. The flange can have a diameter greater than the diameter ofthe threaded portion of the shaft. The flange can have a circular,square, slotted, or other known shape or configuration. The foot end 257can be of a size to ensure a sufficient contact area with the supportingsurface. The support strength and the diameter of the threaded shaft andthe flange can be predetermined based on the weight of the machine.

As shown in FIG. 27, the leg 250 may include a tool receiving end 258which has a size that is adapted to be turned by a wrench. In theexemplary embodiment the tool receiving end may include a squareprojection which is relatively narrower than the diameter of thethreaded shaft 252. When the automated banking machine is beingassembled, the tool receiving end of the leveling leg may be insertedinto the hole 254 from underneath the chest. The leveling leg may thanbe rotated to screw the leveling leg further upward into the chest.

To make an automated banking machine level on an uneven surface, one ormore of the leveling legs may be rotated to increase or decrease thelength of the leveling legs that extend below the chest. In an exemplaryembodiment, the leveling process may include opening the chest door andturning one or more of the square tool receiving ends of the levelinglegs with a wrench. For automated banking machines which includehardware devices in the chest such as currency cassettes, the hardwaredevice may be either removed from the chest or the hardware device maybe moved outward from the chest into a service position to provideaccess to the leveling legs.

As discussed previously, an automated banking machine may include afascia in operative connection with the frame of the machine. Such afascia may include a plurality of openings through which components ofthe machine are accessible. For example as shown in FIG. 1, theautomated banking machine may include a component such as the cashdispenser 24. The cash dispenser may be mounted within the frame/chestof the machine. To enable a user to access the cash dispensed from thecash dispenser, the fascia may include an opening 54 therethrough.

In exemplary embodiments of the machine, to accommodate differentlysized and shaped components, the fascia may include a plurality ofopenings therethrough which have different sizes and shapes. Inaddition, in exemplary embodiments, the size of the openings may be madesufficiently large to accommodate access to a plurality of differentlysized and shaped components. Any gaps or spaces which remain between theedges of the openings in the fascia and the outer enclosure of thecomponent may be filled with at least one obstructing block. The blocksmay be securely mounted to the fascia, a removable fascia bezel and/orthe component to prevent access to the interior of the machine.

In exemplary embodiments the blocks may be formed with a size and shapewhich corresponds to the size and shape of the gap in the openings ofthe fascia. However, in an alternative exemplary embodiment, gaps may beminimized with openings in the fascia which are adjustable in size.FIGS. 28-30 show an example of a portion of a removable fascia bezel 400which includes an adjustable opening 402. In this example, the opening402 has a size and shape for receiving a passbook 404 therethrough forengagement with a passbook printer 406 of the automated banking machine.In exemplary embodiments automated banking machines may have differenttypes of passbook printers for use with different types of passbookmedia. Such media may have different widths which require the opening402 in the fascia bezel to be narrowed or widened.

In this described exemplary embodiment the fascia bezel may include anobstructing block 408 which can be selectively positioned to accommodateopenings with different size requirements. As shown in FIG. 29, theobstructing block 408 may be in slidable connection with the back orinside portions 410 of the fascia bezel 400. As shown in FIG. 30, inthis described exemplary embodiment, the obstructing block 408 mayinclude a slot 414. Screws 412 or other fasteners may be placed throughthe slot and mounted to the inside portion 410 of the fascia bezel. Theobstructing block 408 may be slid along the screws to a position whichreduces or widens the portion of the opening 402 which is accessible topass an item therethrough. The screws may then be tightened to rigidlylock the obstructing block in place to the fascia bezel.

When a differently sized passbook printer or other component isinstalled adjacent the fascia bezel, the screws 412 may be loosened andthe obstructing block may be repositioned to change the size of theportion of the opening to accommodate the different width of the newpassbook printer. The screws may then be re-tightened to lock theobstructing block in place.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fascia bezel may include a funnel 418with upper and lower walls 420, 422 that taper toward each other toreduce the outer opening 402 (FIG. 28) to a relatively narrower innerslit 424 (FIG. 29). The obstructing block 408 may include a flange 416with a size and shape which corresponds to the inner cross-sectionalshape of the funnel 418. When the obstruction block is mounted to thefascia bezel, the flange 416 of the obstruction block is slid into thefunnel 418 through a side opening 426. The flange corresponds to amovable side wall within the funnel which is operative to cover gaps orholes which would otherwise be present when the width of the hardwaredevice is less than the width of the slit 424 of the funnel.

In exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine, the fasciamay be in hinged connection with the frame of the machine. In otherexemplary embodiments the fascia may be is slidable connection with theframe. When a service technician wishes to access the hardware devicesof the machine behind the fascia, the fascia may be unlocked and openedby rotating the fascia about one or more hinges and/or sliding thefascia away from the fascia. In other exemplary embodiments the servicetechnician may be operative to access the back of the machine and moveindividual hardware devices away from the fascia into a serviceposition.

In either example, when the fascia and hardware devices are broughttogether, the openings in the fascia must align with the hardwaredevices installed to the frame of the machine. An exemplary embodimentof the automated banking machine includes systems and methods forautomatically aligning hardware components with the openings in afascia.

FIG. 31 show an example of a fascia 450 of an automated banking machinewhich includes a floating bezel 452. In FIG. 31 the top of the fascia isshown cut away to show the interior features of the floating bezel. Herethe bezel includes an opening 454 which is to be aligned with an openingof a hardware device of the machine. The fascia 450 includes an opening456 which is to be filled by the bezel 452. In this described exemplaryembodiment, the bezel 452 is in sliding connection with the fascia andis operative to slide vertically and horizontally with respect to thefascia. In addition, the bezel 452 includes a size which is wider inboth vertical and horizontal length with respect to the opening 456 inthe fascia, such that when the bezel is slid either up, down, left,and/or right, the bezel will continue to fill the opening 456.

In the exemplary embodiment, the machine is operative to limit movementof the bezel to a range of vertical and horizontal movements withrespect to the fascia. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 31, thefascia 450 may include one or more slots or channels 458 in which thebezel 452 slides. FIG. 32 shows a top cross-sectional view of the fascia450 and bezel 452 prior to the fascia being closed shut adjacent theframe 474 and hardware devices of the machine. In this example, ahardware device 472 may not be aligned with the opening 454 of the bezel542. However, in this described exemplary embodiment, the bezel 452 mayinclude guides 470 which are operative to move the bezel 452 and itsopening 454 into alignment with the hardware device 472 as the fascia isbeing closed. The guides 470 may include angled and/or curved surfaces476 which act in the form of a funnel. The outer space 482 between theouter ends 478 of the guides is sufficiently wide to enable the hardwaredevice 472 to enter the outer space 482 even when the bezel issignificantly out of alignment with the hardware device. The inner space484 between the inner ends 480 of the guides 470 is relatively narrowerthan the outer space 482 and about corresponds to the width of thehardware device.

As the fascia is being shut, at least one of the angled and/or curvedsurfaces 476 of the guides is operative to slide against a side 486 ofthe hardware device, and as a result urge the bezel to slide relativethe fascia. As shown in FIG. 33, when the fascia 450 reaches its closedposition adjacent the frame 474, the sliding of the hardware devicealong at least one of the guides is operative to cause the opening 454of the bezel to move into aligned engagement with the hardware device.

FIG. 34 shows a top cross-sectional view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of a floating bezel 462. Here the bezel 462 includes one ormore apertures 464. The fascia 460 includes projections 466 which passthrough the apertures. In this described exemplary embodiment, thediameters of the apertures 464 of the bezel are relatively larger thanthe diameter of the projections 466 to enable the bezel to move intodifferent horizontal and vertical positions relative the fascia.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may include afascia which provides access to the components attached to the fasciawithout having to fully remove the fascia from the machine. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, the fascia may be operative to tiltrelative the frame into an open position. FIGS. 35-40 show an exemplaryembodiment of a fascia moving from a closed position to an open tiltedposition. In this described exemplary embodiment, the machine 500 mayinclude a rainshield housing 502. FIG. 35 shows a front view of thefascia 504 in a closed position. FIG. 36 shows a back view of the fascia504 in the closed position. The fascia 504 is operative to horizontallyslide in and out of the rainshield housing 502 on roller/guide wheels506 on each side of the fascia. The fascia may be retained in therainshield housing in its docked (closed) position by one or more slamlatches 507. Once the fascia is fully closed, these latches engage tolock the fascia in the closed position. In an exemplary embodiment theslam latches cannot be disengaged from the outside of the machine andmay only be accessed and disengaged from the inside of the machine.

The slam latches may include a bolt 509 that is automatically urged intoa slot 511 of the fascia, when the fascia is completely closed. The slamlatch 507 may include a lever 513 that when pulled is operative to urgethe bolt to move out of the slot. An exemplary embodiment of the slamlatch may further include a pull handle 515 in operative connection withthe lever 5 13. The pull handle 515 may extend toward the back of themachine to enable a technician to more easily unlock the slam latch fromthe back of the machine through a service door.

FIGS. 37 and 38 show the fascia sliding horizontally and outward fromthe rainshield housing 502. FIGS. 39 and 40 show the fascia extendingoutward from the rainshield in a tilted orientation. FIG. 41 shows theroller wheels 506 when the fascia is in the closed position. FIG. 42shows the roller wheels 506 when the fascia is in the opened position.When the fascia is being opened or closed the roller wheels areoperative to roll along the bottom wall of the rainshield housing 502.When the fascia is fully opened, the rainshield housing may include aprojection 508 which is operative to block further outward movement ofthe roller wheels 506. In this described exemplary embodiment the fasciamay include hooks 510 adjacent the roller wheels 506 which are operativeto catch on the projection 508 of the rainshield housing to preventfurther outward movement of the roller wheels.

In this described exemplary embodiment, when the hook 510 has reachedthe projection of the rainshield housing, a forwardmost one of theroller wheels 512 may extend beyond the edge 514 of the rainshield,while a rearward roller wheel 516 remains in the rainshield. As shown inFIG. 43, in this extended position, the fascia is operative to tiltdownwardly by pivoting on the projection 508.

Referring back to FIG. 39, an upper portion of the fascia may includearticulating links 520 extending between the fascia 504 and therainshield housing 502. The links 520 are operative to extend outward aset distance which limits the amount of tilt of the fascia 504 relativethe rainshield housing 502.

In exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine, the fasciamay be operative to enable different types of hardware devices withdifferent sizes to be accessed through the fascia. For example as shownwith respect to FIGS. 44 and 45, a fascia 548 may be configured withdifferent bezels for engaging with a relatively narrow hardware device550 (FIG. 44) or relatively wider hardware devices 552 (FIG. 45).Further, in some configurations bezels 554 may be included in the fasciafor receiving hardware devices, while in other configurations a blankbezel 556 may be included in the fascia when a hardware device isabsent.

As shown in FIG. 46 an exemplary embodiment of the fascia 548 may beconfigured with a plurality of different bezels such as a display devicebezel 560, a statement printer bezel 562, a blank coin bezel 564, adispenser bezel 566, a keypad bezel 568, a bar code reader bezel 570, adepositor bezel 572, a blank card reader bezel 574, a card reader bezel576, a receipt printer bezel 578, and/or other bezels which engage withhardware devices in the machine.

To provide flexibility as to the location of hardware devices mounted inthe frame of the machine, the fascia may be adapted to receiveindividual bezels in different locations on the fascia. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment of the fascia, the bezels may beinstalled from the front of the fascia and may be retained by snapfeatures, tabs, or other fasteners from the back of the fascia. Forexample, FIG. 47 shows a back view of a fascia 548, in which a bezel ismounted to the fascia using snaps 580 on the bezel which extend throughapertures 582 in the fascia. In addition, bezels may be mounted usingfasteners such as screws 584 which are threaded into engagement with abezel from the back of the fascia.

As shown in FIG. 48, these described exemplary embodiments of bezels 600may include an opening 602 for providing access to a correspondinghardware device through the fascia. Such access may enable keys of akeypad or other portions of hardware devices to extend through thefascia. Such openings may also enable objects such as cash, cards,envelopes and other portable objects to pass into and out of a hardwaredevice through the fascia. Exemplary embodiments of hardware devices inan ATM may include LEDs or other display elements which provideinformation to a user of the machine. For such hardware devices,corresponding bezels may include one or more further openings 604 whichare adjacent the display elements of the hardware device. The furtheropenings 604 enable the display elements such as LEDs of hardwaredevices to be visible through the fascia. As shown in FIG. 49, the bezel600 may further include a transparent or translucent lens cover 606 inor adjacent to the further opening. Such a lens cover may have opticalproperties which are operative to magnify the light transmitted throughthe lens cover from the display elements of the hardware device. Inother exemplary embodiments the lens covers may have other opticalproperties including acting as a diffuser or altering the color of thelight emitted from LEDs.

Referring back to FIG. 46, exemplary embodiments of the fascia 548 mayinclude one or more task lighting devices 620 which may be operative toilluminate portions of the fascia including the machine's input, outputand transaction function devices which are used by a consumer to performtransaction functions with the machine. As shown in FIG. 50, in anexemplary embodiment the task lighting device 620 may include a twodimensional LED grid 623 comprised of compact size LEDs 622 mounted on aPC board 624 or other substrate. Such an LED grid may be powered using a24 Volt DC power supply of the machine for example. As shown in FIG. 51,the task lighting device may further include a parabolic refractingdiffuser lens 626 or other diffuser device positioned in front of theLED grid 623.

FIG. 52 shows an exploded view of the elements of an exemplaryembodiment of the task lighting device 620. Here the task lightingdevice 620 may include a mounting bracket 628 that is in operativeconnection between the LED grid 623 and a diffuser lens 626. Thecombination of the LED grid 623, mounting bracket 628 and diffuser lens626 may be connected to the fascia 548 adjacent an opening 630 in thefascia. As shown in FIG. 53 the mounting bracket 628 may include slideand snap-on devices 632 which are operative to releasably connect thetask lighting device 620 to the fascia 548. The fascia 548 may furtherinclude a flexible unlocking tab 634 which may be bent downward toenable the task lighting device 620 to slide out of engagement with thefascia 548.

Although the described exemplary embodiment of the task lighting deviceincludes a plurality of LED light sources, in alternative exemplaryembodiments, the task lighting device may include incandescent,fluorescent, halogen, or other light sources.

As discussed previously with respect to FIG. 46, a fascia may include aremovable display device bezel 560 which covers a display device of themachine such as an LCD or CRT monitor. In exemplary embodiments such adisplay device bezel 560 may include function keys 650 therein.

In exemplary embodiments, the fascia 548 includes an opening 656 atwhich the display device is mounted. The display device bezel 560 mayinclude a corresponding opening 652 that is covered with a transparentvandal shield 654. Such a shield may be comprised of a crack or shatterresistant glass or plastic and may be operative to protect the displaydevice from weather, and/or objects which could damage the displaydevice.

In an exemplary embodiment the display device bezel 560 may include agasket. When the display device bezel 560 is mounted to the fascia 548,the gasket may be positioned between the display device bezel 560 andthe fascia 548 in surrounding relation about the opening 656 through thefascia. In this described exemplary embodiment, the function keys 650may be positioned outside the gasket to prevent water entering thefunction keys to drain through the opening 656 in the fascia. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, the fascia may include a relativelysmaller hole for receiving wires therethrough from the function keys ofthe display device bezel. Such a hole may be positioned above thefunction keys 650 when the display device bezel is mounted to thefascia.

As discussed previously, bezels for mounting to the fascia may includean opening through which a hardware device is accessible. For example asshown in FIG. 46, the fascia may include a card reader bezel 576 with anopening 670 through which a card may be inserted or removed from a cardreader device. When an automated banking machine is being serviced, itis often necessary to separate one or more hardware device fromengagement with the fascia. Unfortunately, when a hardware device isremoved in this manner, users that are unaware that the machine is downfor servicing may continue to attempt to insert objects such as cardsthrough the openings in the bezels. If the hardware device such as thecard reader is not adjacent the bezel 676, the card may fall into theinterior of the machine.

Exemplary embodiments of the bezels for the fascia may include gateswhich are operative to close the openings to the bezels when thecorresponding hardware device is not positioned adjacent the bezel. FIG.54 shows a back perspective view of a card reader bezel 576 whichincludes a gate 672. The gate 672 is operative to move between a firstposition which covers the opening 670 through the bezel 576 and a secondposition which uncovers the opening 670. FIG. 54 shows the gate 672 inthe first or lowered position which covers the opening 670. FIG. 55shows the gate 672 in the second or upward position which uncovers theopening 670. In this described exemplary embodiment the gate 672includes projections 674 on opposed sides of the gate. The projectionsare operative to slide within vertical slots 676 adjacent opposed endsof the bezel 576. The gate may further include ribs 678 adjacent opposedends of the gate. The ribs may include lower outer surfaces 680 whichextend outwardly from the rear face or back surface 673 of the gate inan upward direction and at an acute angle with respect to verticallyoriented back surface 673. When the card reader device is pulled backfrom the card reader bezel 576, gravity or an urging device such as aspring is operative to urge the gate to slide downwardly to cover theopening 670 of the bezel. When the card reader device is moved intoengagement with the bezel, the card reader is operative to contact theouter surfaces 680 of the ribs 678 of the gate 672 and urge the gateupwardly away from the opening 670. In exemplary embodiments the acuteangle of the lower surfaces 680 of the ribs may be between 30-60 degreesor some other angle which is operative to facilitate the gate beingmoved upwardly when the bezel 576 and card reader are brought intoengagement.

In an exemplary embodiment, when the gate is in the second or loweredposition, an outwardly facing surface of the gate may include adistinctive coloring and/or indicia which is visible through theopening. The distinctive color and/or indicia may serve to inform a userthat the machine is not in service. For example, the gate may include ared coloring and/or may have words thereon representative of the machineor device being out of service.

As discussed previously, the automated banking machine may includefloating bezels which provide an opening that may move vertically and/orhorizontally to align with a hardware device. Also, in exemplaryembodiments, the machine may include hardware devices which areoperative to move in three dimensions relative the frame of the machineto automatically align and dock the hardware device with a fixed openingin a bezel of the fascia.

For example FIG. 56 shows an exemplary embodiment of a receipt printerdevice 700 which is operative to dock with a receipt printer bezel 702.Here the bezel includes one or more alignment ribs 704. The alignmentribs include inwardly angled or curved surfaces 706 which are operativeto guide the front 708 of the receipt printer device 700 into dockedengagement with the opening 710 of the bezel 702 when the fascia andreceipt printer device are brought together. In exemplary embodimentsthe angled surface 706 of the alignment ribs may extend downwardly frombelow the opening 710 in the bezel 702 at an acute angle with respect tothe generally vertical back surface of the bezel. Such an acute angle ofthe angled surface 706 may be between 30-60 degrees or some other anglethat is operative to guide the printer into alignment with the opening710 in the bezel when the printer and bezel are brought into engagement.In exemplary embodiments, a bezel of the fascia and a hardware devicesmay be brought together when a previously opened fascia is moved into aclosed position relative the frame of the machine. In other exemplaryembodiments, a bezel of the fascia and a hardware device may be broughttogether when a hardware device is returned from an outer serviceposition to an inner docked position relative to the frame. FIG. 57shows the receipt printer device 700 docked in aligned relation with thebezel 702.

To achieve three dimensional adjustment of the hardware device, all orportions of the hardware device may be operative to move relative to theframe of the machine between a plurality of different up-down,side-to-side and forward-rearward positions. For example, FIG. 58 showsa perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the receipt printer700. In this described exemplary embodiment, the receipt printer mayinclude movable portion 720 that is in pivoting connection with a fixedportion 722. When mounted to a frame of the automated banking machine,the fixed portion 722 may be mounted in generally rigid engagement withthe frame. The movable portion 720 may then be operative to pivot withrespect to the fixed portion 722 and the frame of the machine.

In this described exemplary embodiment, the receipt printer includes oneor more pins 726 in operative connection between the movable portion 720and the fixed portion 722. The movable portion 720 is operative to pivotwith respect to the fixed portion at the pins 726. For example is thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, the pins 726 may extend from the movableportion 720 into pivoting engagement within slots 724 in the fixedportion 722. However, it is to be understood that in alternativeexemplary embodiments, the fixed portion may include pins which extendinto pivoting engagement with slots in the movable portion. In eitherembodiment, a front or exit end 708 of the movable portion 720 isoperative to move in an upward direction 728 or a downward direction 730relative the fixed portion 722 and fascia by pivoting the movableportion 720 with respect to the fixed portion 722.

As used herein the exit end 708 corresponds to the portion of theprinter in which a sheet such as a receipt exits the printer. However,it is to be understood that in other types of transaction functionsdevices the front of the device may correspond to an input end which isoperative to receive a deposit. Whether the front of a transactionfunction device corresponds to an exit end, input end or both, theportion of the front of the transaction function device which receive oroutputs an item through an opening of the fascia is referred to hereinas an opening to the transaction function device.

In the exemplary embodiment, the slots 724 may include a horizontallength which is longer than the diameter of the pins 726 and which isoperative to enable the pins 726 to move forward or rearward in theslots 724. As a result the exit end 708 of the movable portion isoperative to move in a forward direction 732 or a rearward direction 734by the movement of the pins 726 in the slots 724. FIG. 58 shows anexample of the pins 726 moved to a forward position in the slot 724,which moves the exit end 708 of the movable portion into a forwardposition with respect to the fixed portion 722. FIG. 59 shows an exampleof the pins 726 moved to a rearward position in the slot 724, whichmoves the front 708 of the movable portion into a rearward position withrespect to the fixed portion 722.

In addition to the pins of the receipt printer being operative to pivotwith respect to the slots of the receipt printer and being operative tomove to different forward or rearward positions in the slots, the pins726 may further be operative to move in transverse directions withrespect to the slot or vertical plan that includes the slot. For exampleFIG. 60 shows a top view of the receipt printer. The exit end 708 of themovable portion 720 is operative to move in either of the opposedside-to-side directions 736, 738 by the transverse movement of the pins726 with respect to the slots 724.

In addition to the pins 726 moving in synchronous forward-rearward orupward-downward directions with respect to the slots 724, in exemplaryembodiments, the pins may move independently with respect to each otherin their respective slots 724. For example, a first one of the pins 740may be operative to move to a forward position in its correspondingslot, while the second one of the pins 742 moves to a rearward positionin its corresponding slot. As a result a first side 744 of the exit end708 of the movable portion may move to a position that is furtherforward relative the fixed portion 722 compared to the position of asecond side 746 of the exit end 708 of the movable portion relative thefixed portion 722.

Although in this described exemplary embodiment of the receipt printer,the movable portion is in operative connection with a fixed portionusing pins which are operative to pivot and slide within elongatedslots, in other exemplary embodiments, hardware devices or portion ofthe hardware devices may be operative to move relative to the frame andfascia using other connection devices. For example, in an alternativeexemplary embodiments, a hardware device of the machine may include amovable portion that is mounted to a fixed portion using flexible,extensible, and/or resilient connection devices. An example of suchflexible, extensible, and/or resilient connection devices may include aspring. In such an alternative exemplary embodiment the one or moresprings may be used to connect the movable portion to the fixed portionof the hardware device. The springs may bias the movable portion into ahome position. However, when the front of the movable portion contacts abezel of a fascia, the springs may be operative to enable the movableportion to move out of its home position into an offset position inwhich the front of the movable portion is properly aligned and dockedwith the bezel of the fascia.

Referring back to FIG. 58, the exemplary embodiment of the printer mayinclude a bracket 750 that is operative to support a roll of paper 752.Paper 756 from the roll of paper 752 may pass through a printermechanism 754 which is operative to print indicia on the paper. In anexemplary embodiment, the printer mechanism may correspond to a thermalprinter, ink jet printer, dot matrix printer or any other type ofprinter mechanism that is capable of producing indicia on the paper inone, or more colors on the paper 756. In this described exemplaryembodiment, the fixed portion 722 of the printer may include the bracket750 and the movable portion 720 may include the printer mechanism 754.In addition the movable portion 720 may include a spring 751 that isoperative to apply tension to the paper which minimizes slack in thepaper 756 as the movable member 720 moves with respect to the fixedmember 722.

In an exemplary embodiment the printer mechanism may correspond to athermal printer device which is operative to produce indicia such asletter and graphics in two colors. Such colors may include black andsome other color such as red or blue based on the paper used to printthe indicia. The printer may be operative to manage the powerrequirements for the printer head by alternating the input of power tothe printer head through the use of different capacitors.

In the exemplary embodiment, the printer may further include a cuttingmechanism 758 that is operative to cut the paper from the roll intoindividual receipts. In this described exemplary embodiment, the printermay include a set 764 of lugged belts 760 which are operative to rotate.A lower run 763 of the belts is operative to move the cut paper receiptacross an inner surface 765 to the delivery opening 767 at the exit end708 of the printer. The lugged belts 760 may include spaced apartprojections 762 which are operative to assist the belts in grasping andurging the receipt paper to move from the printer mechanism 754 to thedelivery opening 767.

FIG. 61 shows a front cross-sectional view of the receipt printer. Theexemplary embodiment of the receipt printer may include a lower waffledsurface 780 adjacent the exit end 708 of the printer. As used herein awaffled surface corresponds to a surface that includes a plurality ofalternating and parallel ridges and troughs. The set 764 of lugged beltsare operative to move a receipt over the waffled surface 780 and to urgethe receipt to form a waffled or wavy shape which corresponds to thewaffled surface 780. In the exemplary embodiment, the waffled surfacemay include a central ridge 782 positioned between two grooves 784, 786.Portions of the ends of the belts 760 may be positioned to move throughthe grooves 784, 786.

Although, the waffled surface 780 may be located adjacent the exit end708 of the printer, in exemplary embodiments, the printer may further beoperative to impart all or portions of the waffle shape into the receiptprior to reaching the exit end 708 of the printer. For example as shownin a cross-sectional side view of the receipt printer 700 in FIG. 62,the printer may include a elongated ridge 761 between the lower run 765of the belts 760. When the belts move the receipt across the ridge, theridge is operative to urge the center of the receipt to bow upward,while the belts ar operative to urge portion of the receipt into thegrooves.

In the exemplary embodiment, the automated banking machine may beoperative to determine whether or not a user has taken a receipt fromthe receipt printer. For example, the receipt printer may include asensor 790 which is operative to detect the presence or absence of areceipt adjacent the exit end 708 of the printer. The automated bankingmachine may use the sensor to determine if the receipt is still presentafter a predetermined amount of time has lapsed since the receipt wastransported to the exit end 708 of the printer. When the machinedetermines that the user has not taken the receipt after thepredetermined amount of time has lapsed, the machine may be operative tocause the receipt printer to retract the receipt.

In this described exemplary embodiment, the belts 760 may be driven inreverse to move the receipt away from the exit end the 708 of theprinter and in a direction toward the printer mechanism 754. A gate 792may rotate in response to gravity or other forces so that projections796 of the gate 792 transversely extend through the lower run of thebelts 760. When the receipt printer reaches the gate, the inner surface798 of the gate is operative to direct a receipt 792 to move downwardlyinto a reservoir 799 for collecting retrieved receipts. Further examplesof gates which may be used in exemplary embodiments of the printer areshown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,850,075 of Dec. 15, 1998 which is incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

In exemplary embodiments, the receipt printer may include a serial,parallel, USB, or other interface for use with interfacing with thecomputer of the automated banking machine. In addition the printer mayinclude one or more LED indicator lights 800 or other display elementswhich are operative to provide information about the operation of theprinter to user's of the machine. Referring back to FIG. 56, the receiptprinter bezel 702 may include a further opening 802 which is adjacentthe LED indicator lights of the printer when the printer is dockedadjacent the bezel 702, In alternative exemplary embodiments the bezelmay include one continuous opening which combines the opening 710 forthe delivery of a receipt through the bezel with the opening 702 forviewing the LED indicator lights of the printer.

An exemplary embodiment of the previously described waffle surface 720may be orientated to slope downwardly from the printer mechanism 754 tothe opening 710 through the bezel. In this orientation the waffledsurface of the movable member may be operative to direct water enteringthe machine to drain back out of the bezel of the machine.

Although the previously described printer has been described ascorresponding to a receipt printer, it is too be understood that thedescribed features of the printer may also be used for other types ofprinters and/or other types of hardware devices in the automated bankingmachine. Such other types of printers in an automated banking machinemay include a statement printer, passbook printer, ticket printer, moneyorder printer or any other type of printer that may be used by anautomated banking machine. Further the alignment and docking features ofthe described receipt printer and corresponding bezel may further beused in other hardware devices of the automated banking machineincluding, cash dispensers/acceptors, envelope dispensers/acceptors,card readers, display devices, coin dispensers/acceptors or any otherhardware device which is accessible by a user through the fascia of themachine.

Automated banking machines may be manufactured for use in differentlocations. Depending on the location of the automated banking machine,the size, shape and configuration of the fascia and/or frame may bedifferent. For example, FIG. 63 shows a relatively narrow automatedbanking machine which is designed for mounting through a wall of abuilding. As shown in FIG. 64, the relatively narrow wall mountedmachine 900 may be configured with hardware devices which are capable ofenabling a user to perform transactions such as the dispense of cash.FIG. 65 shows the relative motions of a user's hand to perform steps fordispensing cash with the relatively narrow wall mounted machine 900.

Initially at a first position 1 adjacent a card reader 22, the user mayinsert her card into the card reader. Next the user may move her hand ina generally leftward direction to a second position 2 adjacent a keypad16, to type in the user's PIN. The user may next move her hand in anupward and rightward direction to a third position 3 adjacent thefunction keys 14 to press the function key corresponding to the withdrawof cash. As the user may have more than one type of account associatedwith her card, the user may move her hand to the same or another one ofthe function keys at a fourth position 4 adjacent the function keys toselect an account. Next the user may move her hand downwardly andleftward to a fifth position 5 adjacent the keypad 16, to input theamount of cash to dispense.

For exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine which includea display screen 12 with a touch screen, rather than pressing functionkeys to select a withdrawal transaction the user may tap graphicalbuttons displayed on the display screen to select a transaction and/oran account. As a result in alternative exemplary embodiments, afterentering a PIN at the second position adjacent the keypad, the user maymove her hand upwardly to a third/fourth position adjacent the displayscreen 12 rather than moving her hand upwardly and rightwardly to athird/fourth position adjacent the function keys 14. After thetransaction and/or account have been selected using the display screen,the user may then move her hand downwardly from the display screen tothe fifth position adjacent the keypad, to input the amount of cash todispense.

Once the amount is entered, the user may move her hand upwardly andrightwardly to a sixth position 6 adjacent the function keys 14 toprovide an input which verifies and/or initiates the dispense of theinputted amount of cash. Next the user may move her hand downwardly andleftwardly to a seventh position 7 adjacent the cash dispenser 24 totake the cash. In alternative exemplary embodiment of a machine with atouch screen, after the user has entered an amount with the keypad atposition five, the user may move her hand upwardly to a sixth positionadjacent the display screen 12 to provide an input which verifies and/orinitiates the dispense of the inputted amount of cash. Subsequently theuser may move her hand downwardly to a seventh position adjacent thecash dispenser 24 to take the cash.

After taking the cash, the user may move her hand upwardly andleftwardly to an eighth position 8 adjacent the receipt printer 20 totake her receipt. In addition the user may next move her handrightwardly to a ninth position 9 adjacent the card reader to take hercard from the machine.

FIG. 65 shows the relative positions 1-9 and the order that the hand ofthe user may move in to perform the steps to dispense cash. This orderforms a spatial pattern 902 for which the same user or different user'smay follow in order to perform the same transaction. An exemplaryembodiment includes configuring the hardware devices and fascia ofdifferent types and models of automated banking machines for a series ofmachines to enable a user to generally follow the same spatial pattern902 of positions when performing the same type of transactions at thedifferent types and models of automated banking machines of the sameseries.

In alternative exemplary embodiments, the machine may be operative toprompt the user to select one of a plurality of different humanlanguages with which the automated banking machine can outputinformation. Further, in alternative exemplary embodiments, theautomated banking machine may prompt the user to indicate if they wouldlike a receipt, another transaction or other information related tofunctions performed at the machine. Such variations in the programmingof the automated banking machines may vary the timing, distances,directions, and order in which the user movers her hand. However, eventhough the patterns may be different for different transactions anddifferent configurations of the user interface, in exemplaryembodiments, the automated banking machine of different types and modelsin a series are capable of enabling a user to move her hand in generallythe same pattern for the same types of transactions and user interfaceconfigurations.

For example, FIGS. 66 and 67 show a relatively wider automated bankingmachine 910 which includes a different fascia 912 than the fascia 904shown with the relatively narrower machine 900 in FIG. 63. The fascia912 includes relatively more locations for hardware devices to beaccessible through the fascia. However, as shown in FIG. 68, therelative spatial positions 1-9 at which a user's hand must follow inorder to perform the previously described dispense transaction forms agenerally similar pattern 914 compared to the pattern 902 as shown inFIG. 65.

FIGS. 69 and 70 show a relatively narrower standalone automated bankingmachine 920 which includes a different fascia 922 than the previouslydescribed fascias 904, 912. Here the machine 920 is designed to beplaced on the floor rather than through a wall and may also be referredto as a lobby model. However, as shown in FIG. 71, the relative spatialpositions 1-9 at which a user's hand must follow in order to perform thepreviously described dispense transaction forms a generally similarpattern 924 compared to the patterns 902, 914 shown in FIGS. 65 and 68.

FIGS. 72 and 73 show a relatively wider standalone automated bankingmachine 930 which includes a different fascia 932 than the previouslydescribed fascias 904, 912, 922. Here the machine 930 is designed to beplaced on the floor rather than within a wall and includes aconfiguration that is operative provide accesses to a larger number ofhardware devices than the relatively narrow stand alone model 920.However, as shown in FIG. 74, the relative spatial positions 1-9 atwhich a user's hand must follow in order to perform the previouslydescribed dispense transaction forms a generally similar pattern 934compared to the patterns 902, 914, 924 shown in FIGS. 65, 68, and 71.

In exemplary embodiments the distances between components may bedifferent depending on the different models of the automated bankingmachines for a series. As a result the previously described patterns902, 914, 924, 934 may require a user's hand to move shorter or longervertical or horizontal distances between components depending on themodel of machines. However in this described exemplary embodiment, thepatterns are generally the same in regard to the relative up, down,right, and/or left directions a user's hand must follow to move fromcomponent to component to perform the same transaction at the differenttypes and models of machines for the series.

As used herein, the different models of automated banking machines for aseries which are operative to direct a user's hand to move in a commonpattern to perform a common transaction include at least onefreestanding or stand alone machine that is operative to support itselfon a floor and at least one machine that is operative to be mounted insupporting connection through a wall.

The exemplary embodiment includes a method of manufacturing and/orconfiguring a series of different types and/or models of automatedbanking machines in which the relative positions of common hardwaredevices are orientated in the same spatial configuration. Further, themethod may include providing each of the different types and/or modelsof automated banking machines in the series with user interface softwarewhich is operative to direct a user to access the hardware components inthe same order for corresponding transactions.

To enable different automated banking machine models to produce a commonpattern of hand motions for performing a common transaction, thedifferent models may place common components in generally the sameregions of the fascia. For example as shown in FIGS. 64, 67, 70, 73, thefascias of these different models of machines may include threevertically aligned regions which (as shown in FIG. 64) include an upperregion 950, a middle region 952, and a lower region 952. For each ofthese models, the upper regions 950 may include the display screen 12and the function keys 14. The middle regions 952 may include the receiptprinter 20, keypad 16, and card reader 22. The lower regions 954 mayinclude the cash dispenser 24. I addition for each of these models, thereceipt printer 20 is positioned generally leftwardly of the keypad 16and the card reader 22 is positioned generally rightwardly of the keypad16 from the perspective of a user facing the machine.

However, as discussed previously, it is to be understood that exemplaryembodiments of the fascia can be customized to place components indifferent positions. For example as shown in FIG. 1, the statementprinter 21 and receipt printer 20 may switch locations. Nevertheless, inexemplary embodiments, the different models of automated bankingmachines described herein are capable of having common components placedin common locations to enable the hand motion patterns for performingtransactions at the different models of the machines to be generally thesame. Thus a user performing the same transactions at these differenttypes and/or models of machines in a series of machines are enabled tofollow the same familiar motions and patterns to complete the same typesof transactions.

Exemplary embodiments of automated banking machines may include a numberof components which include parts with cylindrical or curved surfaces.An example of cylindrical parts of the machine may include largecapacitors. An exemplary embodiment of the machine may include a bracketfor mounting such cylindrical or curved parts within the enclosure ofthe machine so that the parts are rigidly secured in a position that isaccessible for inspection and replacement by a technician.

FIG. 75 shows an exemplary embodiment of a bracket 300 that may be usedfor mounting a capacitor or other object within an automated bankingmachine. The bracket may include an interior portion 302 defined by oneor more walls 304, 306, 308, 310. At least one of the walls may includea plurality of channels 312, 316. The end of each channel may include agroove 314, 318 which extends in a generally perpendicular directionwith respect to one side of each channel. In the exemplary embodiment aset of two adjacent channels 312, 316 may include facing grooves 314,318which extend towards each other. As shown in FIG. 76, an object such asa capacitor 320 may be securely mounted to the bracket 300 using a cabletie 322 or other flexible fastener. The cable tie may extend through twoadjacent grooves 314, 318 and around the capacitor 320.

FIG. 77 illustrates a method for installing an object into the bracket300. Here a cable tie 322 or other flexible fastener may be placedaround the object such as the capacitor 320. Two ends 330, 332 of thecable tie 322 may be slid through adjacent channels 312, 316 in thebracket. Either before or after the cable tie is inserted through thechannels, the ends of the cable tie may be connected together to form aloop 350. When the cable tie is slide into the two adjacent channels312, 316, the capacitor 320 and the portion of the bracket 352 thatextends between the two adjacent channels 312, 316 will extend throughthe loop 350 of the cable tie. When the ends of the cable tie reach thegrooves 314, 318 the cable tie may be tightened to reduce thecircumference of the loop 350. Reducing the circumference of the loop isoperative to urge the ends of the cable tie 330, 332 into the grooves314, 318 and rigidly hold the capacitor to the wall 308 of the bracket.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bracket may further include featureswhich facilitate the bracket being mounted to the enclosure, frame orother portion of the automated banking machine. In the exemplaryembodiment, such features may include tabs or hooks 360 which extendadjacent a wall 362 of the bracket. As shown in FIG. 78, the hooks 360may be adapted to slide within one or more slots 380 in a portion 382 ofthe automated banking machine. In addition the bracket 300 may include ahole 364 which is operative to receive a screw 384 or other fastenertherethrough. In this described exemplary embodiment, when the hooks 360of the bracket are inserted into slots 380 of the automated bankingmachine, the screw 384 or other fastener may also be inserted into thehole 364 for use with rigidly connecting the bracket to the portion 382of the automated banking machine.

As shown in FIG. 75, the bracket may further include flanges 370 in theinterior portion 302 of the bracket. The flanges are operative toprevent the capacitor from moving into contact with the wall 306 therebypreventing electrical contacts of the capacitor from being in electricalcommunication with the wall 306.

As shown in FIG. 79, exemplary embodiments of the struts 100, 104 of theframe 110 of the automated banking machine may include outwardlyextending ridges 1010 or other spacers. The ridges or other spaces areoperative to support the panels at a sufficient distance from thesurfaces 1012 of the struts to provide channels 1014 for receiving wiresand cables 1018 of the hardware devices mounted within the frame 110.When looking into the interior 1020 of the frame, the struts areoperative to hide from view the cables or wires being routed along theoutside surfaces 1012 of the struts.

In this described exemplary embodiment, the struts may further includecable retainers 1022 which are operative to hold the wires and cables inplace adjacent the channels 1014 of the struts. The exemplaryembodiments of the struts may further include apertures 1019therethrough for routing cables, wires, electrical lines or othercomponents between the inner portions 1020 of the frame and the channels1014 of the struts.

In addition to mounting cables adjacent the struts of the frame,exemplary embodiments may route cables and wires through flexibleconduits. FIG. 80 shows an example of a flexible conduit 1030. Theflexible conduit 1030 may include a continuous channel therethroughwhich extends between the ends of the conduit 1032, 1034. One or morecables or wires 1036 of the hardware devices of the machine may berouted through the channel of the conduit 1030. In this describedexemplary embodiment, the conduit may be comprised of a plurality ofhollow links 1038. Each link is connected to an adjacent link with a pin1040. Each adjacent pair of links is operative to pivot with respect toeach other about the pin. When a hardware device is positioned withinthe frame, the flexible conduit 1030 may be orientated in a curved orgenerally U-shaped orientation in which the opposed ends 1032, 1034 arerelatively close together. When the hardware device is pulled out of themachine for servicing, the flexible conduit 1030 is operative to uncurlthereby enabling the distance between the ends 1032, 1034 to increase.In this described exemplary embodiment, one or both of the ends 1032,1034 of the flexible conduit may be in pivoting connection withcorresponding hardware devices, brackets, and/or frame of the machine.

To further retain cables and wires 1052, exemplary embodiments of theautomated banking machine may include cable retention rings 1050. Suchretention rings may include a base with an aperture therethrough forreceiving a fastener such as a screw. The retention rings may be mountedas needed to the frame and/or hardware devices of the machine. Eachretention ring may include a slit adjacent the base which enables cablesto be passed into and out of the interior of the retention ring. In anexemplary embodiment the cable retainer may correspond to a curved orcurled finger which at least partially surrounds a cable or electricalline.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may include largehinges for opening various doors, portions of the fascia, the chestdoor, or any other component which rotates between an open and closedposition. To prevent such hinges from being visible, an exemplaryembodiment of the machine may include a trimcap linkage system which isoperative to cover one or more hinges without interfering with theopening of a door associated with the hinges.

For example, FIG. 81 shows a top view of an automated banking machine1300. The machine includes a door 1302 in hinged connection with aportion 1307 of the machine. The hinges 1305 of the machine 1300 mayextend downwardly between the door 1302 and the portion 1307 of theautomated banking machine. FIG. 81 shows the door in an open position.FIG. 82 shows the door in the closed position.

When the door is in the closed position (FIG. 82) a covering device orhinge cover 1304 (which may also be referred to herein as a trimcap) maybe urged by a linkage system 1306 into a position which conceals orcovers the hinges 1305 from a front facing viewpoint 1308 and/or sidefacing view point 1310. In this described exemplary embodiment, thetrimcap may correspond to an elongated enclosure with an open end. Whenthe door is closed the hinges are operative to pass into the opening ofthe enclosure so that at least portions of the hinges are located withinthe trimcap 1304. In alterative exemplary embodiments the trimcap maycorrespond to an elongated wall which when the door is closed movesadjacent the side of the door so as to conceal the hinges 1305 from thefront facing viewpoint 1308.

The linkage system of the exemplary embodiment may include a firstlinkage 1312 and a second linkage 1314. A first end 1322 of the firstlinkage 1312 may be in pivoting connection with the portion 1307 of themachine at a first point 1320. The second end 1324 of the first linkage1312 may be in operative supporting connection with the trim cap 1304 ata second point. A first end 1330 of the second linkage 1314 may be inpivoting connection with the first linkage 1312 at a third point 1332.Also, a second end 1334 of the second linkage 1314 may be in pivotingconnection with the door 1302 at a fourth pont 1336.

In this described exemplary embodiment, when the door is moving from anopen position (FIG. 81) to the closed position (FIG. 82), the secondlinkage 1314 is operative to urge the first linkage 1312 to rotate thetrimcap to a position which conceals the hinges 1305. When the door ismoving in the opposite direction from the closed position (FIG. 82) tothe open position (FIG. 81), the second linkage 1314 is operative tourge the first linkage 1312 to rotate the trimcap away from the hinges1305. In the open position, the trim cap is moved a sufficient distancefrom the hinges 1305 to provide room for the door to rotate about thehinges.

As with the previously described system for mounting capacitors to theautomated banking machine, other types of hardware devices may bemounted within the frame without the use of tools. For example, theframe of the machine may include one or more trays mounted therein forreceiving hardware devices in supporting connection therewith. Anexample of such a tray 1402 is shown in FIG. 83. The tray may includeone or more slots 1404 therethrough. In the exemplary embodiment, thehardware devices 1406 may include mounting brackets 1408. The mountingbrackets of the hardware devices may include hooked tabs 1410 similar inconfiguration to the hooks 360 shown in FIG. 78.

To connect the hardware device to the tray, the hooked tabs 1410 may beslid into the slots 1404 of the tray 1402. As shown in FIG. 84, the traymay further include an upwardly angled tab 1412 positioned adjacent anedge 1414 of the tray 1402. In this described exemplary embodiment, theangled tab 1412 is operative to contact a side 1416 of the hardwaredevice 1406 thereby blocking the hardware device from sliding its hookedtabs out of the slots of the tray. To insert or remove the hardwaredevice, the angled tab 1412 may be pushed downward to enable thehardware device 1406 to pass overtop of the angled tab.

An exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine may includevarious parts which are mounted to an exterior of the machine. As shownin FIG. 85, such parts may include portions of the fascia such as a trimring 1420. The trim ring may be comprised of more than one separateparts which are placed together to form the complete ring. For exampleas shown in FIG. 86 such separate parts may include a top portion 1422and a side portion 1424. An exemplary embodiment may include a method ofmounting an assembly of parts to the automated banking machine. Themethod may include placing the parts together and inserting a gasket1426 into both parts, which gasket transverses the interface 1428 wherethe two parts meet. In this described method, the gasket is operative tohold the separate parts together while the assembly is being installedto the automated banking machine. In addition, in this describedexemplary embodiment, the gasket may further be operative to block rainwater and other elements from passing between the installed part and theautomated banking machine.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may include otherfeatures and methods for mounting hardware devices, components, andbrackets to the machine without the use of fasteners such as screws. Forexample, FIG. 87 shows an exemplary embodiment of a sheet metal bracket1430. As shown in FIG. 88, the bracket may include one or more pre-benttabs 1434. The tabs may include a groove 1432 cut partially into asurface of the tab 1434. In an exemplary embodiment, the groove may becut with a laser to have a depth which is less than the thickness of thetab.

Referring to FIG. 87, components 1436 of the automated banking machinesuch as a plastic-cover for example, may be mounted to a sheet metalbracket 1430. The component 1436 may include a U-shaped tab 1438 whichforms a loop with a slot therethrough. As shown in FIG. 89, the U-shapedtab 1438 may be placed around the tab 1434 of the metal bracket 1430 sothat the metal tab passes through the slot in the loop. As shown in FIG.90, the metal tab 1434 may be bent upward to form a second bend whichlocks the U-shaped tab in place. In this described exemplary embodiment,the metal tab 1434 is operative to bend at the groove 1432. To removethe component, the metal tab 1434 may be bent back down to enable theU-shaped tab to slide off of the metal tab 1434.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may includecomponents comprises of sheet metal parts which are connected togetherby inserting a tab of one part into a slot of another part and thenbending the tab to lock the parts together. FIG. 120 shows an example ofan exemplary first automated banking machine part 2100 which includes aplurality of slots 2110 therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment theslot 2110 is operative to receive therein a tab 2112 of a second part2102 of the automated banking machine. In exemplary embodiments, the tab2112 may include a base portion 2114 adjacent the body 2108 of thesecond component which tapers to a relatively narrower tip portion 2130.

The slot may include an elongated portion 2118 with a width that aboutcorresponds and/or is slightly larger than a width of the base portion2114 of the tab 2112. The elongated portion 2118 may include at leasttwo side edges 2126, 2128. At least one of the side edges may includes aoutwardly bowed portion 2120 which provides the slot 2110 with a widercenter relative the thickness of the slot at each of the ends 2122, 2124of the elongated portion. In the exemplary embodiment, the bowed portion2120 have a generally semi-circular shape. Also exemplary embodiments,the bowed portion 2120 may not extend to each of the end portions 2122,2124. When a tab, or set of tabs is being inserted into a slot or set ofslots, the relatively wider bowed portion 2120 of the slots is operativeto facilitate centering and aligning the tabs 2112 with the slots 2110.The relatively narrower end portions 2122, 2124 are sufficiently narrowto minimize a fully inserted tab from sliding in directions parallel tothe surface of the first part 2100.

To facilitate the tabs being bent accurately and consistently at thebase, such tabs may be laser cut as discussed previously with respect tothe metal tab 1432 shown in FIG. 90. For example, as shown in FIG. 120,the base 2114 of the tabs 2112 may include a small thin groove 2116 witha depth that is less than the thickness of the tab. In exemplaryembodiments the length of the groove may be equal to or less than thewidth of the base of the tab. In and exemplary embodiment, the groovemay not extend to the edges of the tab.

After a tab 2112 has been inserted into-a slot 2110, force may beapplied adjacent a side of the tab using hand tools such as pliersand/or a rubber mallet. In the exemplary embodiment, the tab isoperative to bend at the groove which is operative to draw the two parts2100 and 2102 together to form a tight and/or rigid connection betweenthe parts. For example, hand tools such as pliers may be used toinitially start bending a tab which is operative to urge the partscloser together and shrink gaps between the mating surfaces of parts.Subsequently a hand tool such as a rubber mallet may used to bend thetab generally flat (FIG. 121) and at about ninety degrees to lock thetwo parts together.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may be operativeto mount PC boards in the automated banking machine without the use oftools. For example FIGS. 91 and 92 show an exemplary embodiment of a PCboard cover 1440 that may be mounted in an automated banking machine.The PC board cover 1440 may include stepped bosses 1441 which areoperative to cooperatively engage with apertures 1442 through PC boards1447 to support the PC Boards on the cover 1440. The PC board cover 1440may further include flexible snaps 1444 with projections 1445 which areoperative to hook overtop of a PC board 1447 to releasably lock the PCboards to the bosses 1441.

As shown in FIG. 91, the PC board cover 1440 may include relativelyshorter snaps 1446 adjacent taller snaps 1448. As shown in FIG. 93, therelatively shorter snaps 1446 may be used to mount a first PC board 1450to the cover, while the relatively taller snaps 1448 may be used tomount a second PC board 1452 to the cover in a position that is abovethe first PC board. The tops of the shorter snaps 1446 or other spacingdevices maybe used to support the second PC board 1452 in spaced apartrelation above the first PC board 1450. The snaps may be manually flexedopen to assemble the PC board on the cover and then flexed back to holdthe PC board in place.

In exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine, cables whichplug into hardware components may be secured in place using cable locks.For example FIG. 94 shows the previously described PC board cover 1440.Here the cover is shown with integral cable locks 1460. The cable locksmay include a plurality of ribs 1462. Adjacent ribs may include anundersized gap 1464 therebetween for creating an interference fitbetween the ribs and a cable 1466. As shown in FIG. 95, plastic housings1472 for hardware devices and or the hardware devices themselves mayinclude one or more cable locks 1470 adjacent locations that cables 1474may be connected to the hardware devices.

FIG. 96 shows an alternative exemplary embodiment of a cable lock 1480integrated into a sheet metal bracket. Here the bracket may include aplurality of ribs 1482 that receive cables therebetween. The cable locksmay be positioned sufficiently close to a head 1484 of a connected cable1490 so as to block the cable from moving completely out of connectionwith the hardware device 1486. Here the width of the gap 1488 may berelatively narrower than the width of the head 1484 of the cable 1490.In this described exemplary embodiment the cable 1490 may be installedat an acute angle into the port of the hardware device 1486 and thenpushed down into the cable lock 1480 to secure the cable in placegenerally perpendicular with respect to the hardware device port. Inthis described exemplary embodiment, the cable locks 1480 may or may nothave gaps between adjacent ribs that are sufficiently small to form aninterference fit with the cable.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may includevarious methods of connecting plastic parts to metal parts. Such methodsmay include the use of flexible snaps as discussed previously withrespect to the PC board cover in FIG. 92. For example as shown in FIG.97, a plastic bezel 1500 may include pins 1508 which pass throughapertures 1510 in a sheet metal bracket 1506 to assist in properlypositioning the bezel to the sheet metal bracket. In addition theplastic bezel may include flexible snaps 1502 which may be inserted intoslots 1504 in the sheet metal bracket 1506 to lock the bezel in place.

In an exemplary embodiment of assembling the automated banking machines,only the snaps and pins may be used to secure the bezel in place.However the exemplary embodiment of the bezel may further includethreaded supports 1512, which may be used at a later time to mount ascrew or other fastener for holding the bezel to the sheet metal bracketwhen the pins or snaps of the bezel have become damaged or worn.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may furtherinclude other methods and systems for assembling parts without the useof tools or fasteners such as screws. For example FIG. 98 shows anexample of a plastic trim bezel 1550, rubber gasket 1552, and lightdiffuser being assembled to a sheet metal bracket 1556. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment a first part such as the trim bezel 1550may include cruciform ribs or pins 1560 which act as a locator toposition a second part being assembled to it such as the light diffuser1554. The second part may further include apertures 1562 which receivethe cruciform pins 1562 therethrough.

In addition the second part may include ribs 1564 which fit against athird part such as the sheet metal bracket 1556. The ribs may beoperative to prevent the second part from being pushed inwardly and outof engagement with the first part after assembly. The first part mayinclude a trough 1570 for receiving the gasket 1552. The gasket may beoperative to seal the assembly to prevent rain penetration. The gasketmay also be operative to provide friction between the first part 1550(e.g. the bezel) and the third part 1556 (e.g. the sheet metal bracket)as the first and second part assembly is slid into engagement with thethird part. The additional friction provided by the gasket may also keepthe assembly from coming apart during shipping.

As shown in FIG. 99, in the exemplary embodiment, the third part 1556(e.g. the sheet metal bracket) may include an L-shaped portion 1572 thatis operative to guide the first part 1550 (e.g. the bezel) duringinstallation and is operative to stop the first part once it is slidinto position. As shown in FIG. 100 the first part 1550 may includeundercut ribs 1574. As shown in FIG. 101, the first part 1550 may beengaged to the third part 1556 by sliding the undercut ribs 1574 behindflanges 1576 of the third part 1556.

An exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine may include oneor more enclosures therein. FIGS. 102-107 show an exemplary embodimentof an automated banking machine enclosure 1600. The enclosure includes adoor 1602. The door 1602 includes at least one tab 1604 with a hook orlance 1605 formed at one edge 1606 of the door. The tab 1604 may be bentinwardly from the edge 1606 at an angle such as 45 degrees. As shown inFIG. 103, the door 1602 may be mounted to the enclosure 1600 by slidingthe tabs 1604 of the door into slots 1608 in a wall 1610 of theenclosure. A lance 1605 of the tab 1604 may then be slid downward behindthe wall 1610 of the enclosure. As shown in FIGS. 104 and 105, in thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, the slots 1608 are located in a wall1610 of the enclosure which is perpendicular to the side 1612 of thehousing that is being closed by the door 1602.

As shown in FIG. 102, the door 1602 may include a lip 1614 along anupper edge of the door 1602. When the door is in the closed position,the upper lip 1614 is located in the opening of the enclosure under thetop wall 1616 of the enclosure to prevent the door from being removed bysliding it upwardly. When the door is in the open position, the door maybe removed by sliding the tabs 1604 out of the slots 1608 of theenclosure. In this described exemplary embodiment the door is operativeto rotate about 90 degrees from the closed position to the openedposition.

As shown in FIG. 106, exemplary embodiment of the enclosure 1600 mayinclude a removable cover 1620 adjacent the wall 1610 which includes theslots 1608 for receiving the tabs of the door 1602. The cover mayinclude tabs 1622 with lances 1624 that are operative to slide withinslots 1626 in the wall 1610 of the enclosure prior to the door beingmounted to the enclosure. When the tabs 1622 have been inserted into theslots 1626, the cover may be slid in a direction that extends away fromthe side 1612 that will include the door. As the cover slides the lances1624 of the tabs 1622 slide behind the wall 1610. Also tabs 1628 at anedge 1630 of the cover may slide behind the wall 1610.

In the exemplary embodiment the cover 1620 includes a locking tab 1632.As shown in FIG. 107, when the cover is installed on the enclosure, thelocking tab 1632 extends through the wall 1610. When the tabs of thedoor 1602 are mounted in the slots 1608 of wall 1610, the edge 1606 ofthe door is operative to block the locking tab 1632 and cover 1620 fromsliding toward the door and disengaging from the enclosure. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, to remove the cover, the door must beremoved first.

Referring back to FIG. 79, and exemplary embodiment of the automatedbanking machine may include a computer 1350 mounted outside the chest102. The machine may include a PC chassis 1352 which is operative tosupport the computer 1350 in the frame. The computer may include a harddrive bay bracket which is removable without using tools according toone or more of the previously described methods of mounting componentswithout tools (e.g. tabs with lances, bendable tabs, and locking tabs).Further in an exemplary embodiment the hard drive may be in releasableconnection with the hard drive bay bracket such that the hard drive maybe removed from the hard drive bay bracket while the hard drive baybracket, power supply and/or other components of the computer remain inthe chassis.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may include oneor more devices which transport media into and out of the machine. Forexample, such devices may include the previously discussed cashdispenser and receipt printer. Such devices such as a cash dispenser forexample may include one or more optical sensors which are operative todetermine if a location in a transport in which the media passes or isdeposited includes an item therein. Such an item may be the mediaitself, a portion of the device, or a foreign object.

In an exemplary embodiment, these sensors may be used to verify mediacounts. The sensors may also be used to determine a mechanical positionof portions of the device such as a push plate mechanism. The sensorsmay also be used to signal when a media has been removed from a locationsuch as a gate of the dispenser.

Optical sensors may include a light source and a light detector. Anobject blocking light from the light source from reaching the lightdetector may be operative to trigger a determination by the automatedbanking machine that there is an obstruction. However, there exists thepossibility that an individual placing an obstruction adjacent theoptical sensor may attempt to fool the optical sensor by providing asubstitute light source directed toward the light detector. Because thelight detector continues to detect light from the substitute lightsource, the automated banking machine may not be able to detect theobstruction.

An exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine may include oneor more optical sensors adjacent a media pathway which are operative toprovide protection against fraudulent actions which involve fooling thelight sensor. For example, an exemplary embodiment of a sensor mayinclude a light source such as an LED. When the light source is turnedon, the automated banking machine is operative to cause the signaldetected by the light detector to be evaluated. The sensor and/or otherportions of the machine such as software operating in the computer ofthe machine may be operative to evaluate the detected signal.

For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the sensor may include acircuit which is operative to evaluate the signal. Other extraneouslight frequencies such as ambient light, factory light, and sunshinedetected by the light detector may be canceled out by the circuit. Inexemplary embodiments, the sensor may include a lens which is operativeto attenuate light frequencies other than infra-red. The lens may act asa passive filter which is operative to limit the type of light that isdetected by the sensor.

In the exemplary embodiment, the sensor light source may be AC coupledto portions of the circuit to produce a signal which can bedistinguished by the circuit from a DC light source such as a flashlight. For example, the sensor light source may generate a light signalwhich various in intensity over time with a set frequency or otherpattern. Light detected by a light detector of the sensor may beevaluated by the circuit to determine if the detected light signalchanges in intensity over time at a corresponding frequency or patternas the light signal generated by the light source.

If the detected light does not change in intensity or does not change inintensity with a frequency or pattern that corresponds to the lightsignal from the light source, the circuit is operative generate a signalrepresentative of there being a problem with the passageway. Theautomated banking machine may be responsive to the problem signal totake the machine out of service and/or send a message to a remote serverwhich conveys the detection of the problem by the circuit.

If the detected light signal does change in intensity with a patternthat corresponds to the pattern of intensity change of the light signalgenerated with the light source, the automated banking machine may beresponsive to the circuit to attempt to move an item through thepathway.

An exemplary embodiment of a circuit 2000 that may be used to operatethe sensor is shown in FIG. 108. The sensor circuit 2000 may include alight source that corresponds to an LED drive circuit 2002 comprised ofan op-amp circuit 2005 and drive transistor 2008. The sensor circuit2000 may also include a feedback circuit 2004 comprised of a senseresistor that is fed back into the inverting terminal of the op-amp2005. The LED current may be adjusted by a 6-bit PWM (pulse widthmodulation) control 2009. The duty cycle may vary from 0% to 100%. Thismay provide a range of LED current from 0 mA to 80 mA respectively in 48increments.

The sensor circuit 2000 may further include a light detector thatcorresponds to a phototransistor receiver circuit 2006. A signalreceived with a phototransistor 2007 may be pulled high to the V/2reference level with a low resistance. The value of this resistor may bekept low to minimize any near field coupling issues and to reduce thesensor's sensitivity to ambient light. The signal may then be passedthrough a series DC-block capacitor 2010. This stage may provide highpass filtering along with keeping out any DC signals that wouldotherwise be amplified through the following stages and cause possiblesaturation. The signal may then be amplified through a non-invertinggain stage. The next stage of the circuit may incorporate an op-amp thatis switched between a +1 and −1 gain. This may provide a demodulatedsignal to the integrating stage. The signal may integrate over severalcycles in order to subtract out the ambient light. The final outputsignal 2011 may consist of a DC level analog voltage varying in voltagefrom 2.5 volts to 5 volts. Signals of 2.5 volts may indicate that thepassageway adjacent the sensor is either blocked or the LED is off.Signals above 2.5 volts may indicate that the passageway adjacent thesensor is clear.

The exemplary embodiment of the sensor maybe calibrated according to thefollowing method. Initially the method may include selecting a zero PWMto turn the LED off and recording the resulting sensor signal. Thisrecorded sensor signal corresponds to the baseline from which theblocked or unblocked statuses can be made. Next the method includesincreasing the LED current by increasing the PWM duty cycle. In additionthe method includes monitoring the analog voltage fed back through anA/D Converter.

In the exemplary embodiment, there are three cases that may be handledduring the PWM adjustments. Case 1 allows the sensor to calibrate tofull range. When the analog voltage read back reaches a maximum range of(V−0.2) and the PWM value is below 100%, the LED drive current may beset. The maximum range of (V−0.2) may be chosen for example to be 6%from the absolute full range of the sensor output to avoid saturation.This maximum sensor range may be stored/saved by software operating inthe automated banking machine. Case 2 occurs if the voltage read backdoes not reach the maximum range. During this situation, the voltageread back needs to be above [V/10+baseline]. This ensures that there isenough signal to noise ratio. Case 3 occurs if the sensor does not reachthe minimum value of [V/10+baseline]. This case 3 will generate a faultindicating calibration out of range.

The calibration method may next include setting upper and lowerthresholds for both case 1 and case 2. As shown in FIG. 109, such upperand lower thresholds may be set to a 30% margin from both the baseline(nominally V/2) and the maximum range achieved. This may provide a 40%noise band area. The upper and lower thresholds may be stored in a datastore by the circuit and/or software operating in the automated bankingmachine. Signals will need to be equal to or above the upper thresholdto indicate that a passage is not blocked. Signals will need to be equalto or below the lower threshold to indicate that the passage is blocked.

In addition the calibration method may include setting a recalibrationthreshold between the sensor unblocked value or baseline and the upperthreshold. The sensor reading can be continually checked against thisthreshold to indicate when the sensor needs to be recalibrated. Therecalibration threshold may be stored/set by software operating in theautomated banking machine. Signals below this recalibration thresholdmay indicate recalibration of the circuit is required.

As shown in FIG. 1110, in this described exemplary embodiment, amodulated PWM may be used. The carrier frequency may be 10 kHz and thesub-carrier frequency may be 500 kHz for example. The demodulationsignal may be 10 kHz with a 50% duty.

Exemplary embodiments of the automated banking machine may includeaccepting devices which accept items from users of the machine. Forexample, the machine may include a cash acceptor which acceptsindividual bills or stacks of bills. In addition, the machine mayinclude an envelope acceptor which receives deposits provided inenvelopes. In each of these cases, the machine may store received bills,envelopes, or other items in a reservoir referred to herein as acassette.

FIG. 111 shows an example of an acceptor device 1100 of an exemplaryembodiment of the automated banking machine which is operative to acceptdeposited items from users and store the deposited items in an internalstorage area. Here the acceptor device 1100 corresponds to an envelopeacceptor which is operative to receive envelopes deposited by users atan opening 1102. One or more belts of the acceptor device move thedeposited envelope into a removable deposit holding container which isreferred to herein as a cassette 1104.

FIG. 112 shows an exploded view of the cassette 1104. The cassette mayinclude a reservoir 1106 with an upper opening 1108. A door mechanism1110 may be in operative connection with reservoir adjacent the opening.The door mechanism 1110 may include a door 1112 which is operative tomove between a closed position which closes the opening to the reservoirand an open position which opens the opening to the reservoir. The doormay be in sliding engagement with a frame 1140, the frame may be formedintegral with the reservoir or may be mounted to the top of thereservoir. The reservoir may correspond to a plastic or metal bucket, aflexible bag or any other type of reservoir which is operative to holddeposits.

In this described exemplary embodiment the door may correspond to atambour door comprised of a flexible plastic or other material which isin sliding engagement within the frame 1140. When the door is being slidopen portions of the door may be directed to move inwardly into thereservoir.

As shown in FIG. 112, the frame may be comprised of an upper portion1114 and a lower portion 1116. As shown in FIG. 113 when the upper andlower portions 1114, 1116 are connected together, a channel 1118 isformed adjacent each of the opposed sides of the opening to thereservoir. The tambour door may include side flanges 1124 in slidingengagement within the channels 1118 of the frame. To open or close thetambour door, the flanges 1124 of the tambour door are operative toslide within the channels 1118 in directions that are parallel to thechannels of the frame.

In the exemplary embodiment the channels and the flanges arecooperatively adapted to resist movement of the flanges out of thechannels in a direction that is perpendicular to the channels. Forexample, the channels 1118 may includes a relatively narrow opening 1120connected to a wider inner area 1122. The flanges of the tambour doormay include a relatively narrow stem 1126 extending through the narrowopening 1120 of the channel. The stem 1126 of the flange may then beconnected to a relatively wider portion 1128 which extends in the widerinner area 1122 of the channel. In the described exemplary embodiment,the cross-section of the flange 1124 may have a generally “T” shapewhich slides through a generally “T” shaped cross-section of the channel1118. In other exemplary embodiments, the channels and flanges may havea generally “L” shape or any other shape which is operative tomechanically lock the flanges of the tambour door within the channels.

In the exemplary embodiment, the relatively wider portion of the flangeis operative to resist being pulled through the narrow opening 1120. Incases where a significant amount of force is applied to the tambourdoor, portions of the channel and/or portions of the flange of thetambour door may be operative to deform and/or break in a manner whichis visually apparent, thereby indicating that the tambour door has beentampered with.

In an exemplary embodiments of the cassette, a person could attempt tobreak into the cassette through the tambour door by applying excessivedownward force in the middle of the door. Such downward force may beoperative to deform the flange of the door sufficiently to enable theflanges to pull out of the channels 118 through the opening 1120 of thechannels.

In cases where the flange and or frame have not suffered visible damage,the size of the opening 1120 to the channel 1118 may be sufficientlysmall relative to the size of the wider portion 1128 of the flange 1124to make it difficult to push the flange back through the opening 1120 tothe channel 1118. As a result the visible appearance of the flange ofthe door not being properly seated in the channels of the frame isoperative to indicate that the tambour door has been tampered with.

Referring back to FIG. 112, when the door mechanism is initially beingassembled, the flanges of the tambour door may be placed into thechannels 1118 being formed by the upper portion 1114 and lower portion1116 of the frame. In addition in this described exemplary embodiment,the upper portion 1114 and the lower portion 1116 may be operative tosnap together to form an integral frame which is further snapped ontothe reservoir 1106. In the exemplary embodiment the connection betweenthe first and second portions 1114, 1116 of the frame and the connectionbetween the frame and the reservoir 1106 is adapted to be difficult toseparate without damage to the frame/reservoir or without access to theinterior of the frame/reservoir. For example the portions of the frameand the reservoir may include tabs 1130 which snap into slots 1132 toengage and lock the components together. Such tabs may only beaccessible from the interior of the frame or reservoir. In alternativeexemplary embodiments separate fasteners may be used to connect theportions of the frame and the reservoir. Such fasteners may only beaccessible from the interior of the frame or, reservoir.

In cases where the tambour door has been damaged and must be replaced,the exemplary embodiment of the frame may include features which enablethe tambour door to be replaced without separating the upper portion 114and the lower portion 1116 of the frame. For example as shown in FIG.114, a wall 1144 of the frame which bounds the channel 1118 may includea frangible portion or tab 1142. The frangible tab 1142 may include aportion 1146 which is structurally weaker than adjacent portions 1148 ofthe wall and is operative to break cleanly away from the adjacentportion 1148 of the wall.

As shown in FIG. 115, the frangible tab 1142 may be sufficientlyflexible to bend into the channel 1118 to form an opening 1150. Theopening 1150 may be sufficiently large to enable the flange 1124 of thetambour door 1112 to slide out of the channel 1118. In this describedexemplary embodiment opposed sides of the frame may include frangibletabs to enable each side of a tambour door to be removed and or insertedback into the frame. When a tambour door is inserted into the channelsthrough the opening formed by the break in the frangible tab, thefrangible tab may be sufficiently resilient to return the breakawayportion of the tab 1146 into alignment with the adjacent portions 1148of the wall.

FIGS. 116 and 117 shows an exemplary embodiment of a locking mechanism1160 of the cassette. In the exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism1160 is operative to lock the tambour door in a closed position whichprevents access to the interior of the reservoir. The exemplaryembodiment of the locking mechanism may be placed in different statesincluding an armed state and a locked state. FIG. 116 shows the lockingmechanism in the armed state. In the armed state a locking arm 1164 isrotated upwardly. In this position, the end 1162 of the door 1112 may bemoved to a closed position adjacent the locking mechanism, however, thedoor will not become locked shut and may still be slid open again.

The locking arm 1164 is biased with a spring 1170 to rotate into alowered position which is operative to engage with a slot 1166 in thedoor 1112. However, as shown in FIG. 116, when the locking mechanism isin the armed state, the locking arm 1164 is held upwardly by a furtherarm 1168. The further arm 1168 is operative to rotate between a firstposition which holds the locking arm upwardly and a second positionwhich releases the locking arm 1164 to rotate downwardly. The furtherarm 1168 is biased to rotate to the first position by a spring 1172. Thefurther arm includes a portion 1174 which is extends adjacent anaperture 1176 through the side of the frame 1140. As will be discussedfurther in more detail, when the cassette is inserted into the automatedbanking machine, a pin in the automated banking machine is operative topass into the aperture 1176 in the frame and urge the further arm 1168to rotate to the second position. As discussed previously, in the secondposition the further arm is operative to move to a location which freesthe locking arm 1164 to rotate downwardly to place the locking mechanisminto the locked state.

FIG. 117 shows an example of the locking mechanism in the locked state.Here the locking arm 464 has rotated downwardly. When the tambour dooris slid into the closed position adjacent the locking mechanism, the tip1180 of the locking arm 1164 is operative to rotate into the slot 1166in the door. In this described exemplary embodiment when the door isbeing closed, an upper wall 1182 adjacent the slot may initial push thetip 1180 of the locking arm to rotate upwardly. When the wall 1182 hasslide passed the tip 1180 of the locking arm, the locking arm rotatesdownwardly into the slot 1166. In the exemplary embodiment, the tip 1180of the locking arm is operative to contact an inside surface 1184 andblock the wall 1182 and tambour door 1112 from sliding into an openedposition.

In the exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism may be returned tothe armed state responsive to turning of a key clockwise to an unlockingposition and then turning the key counterclockwise. The clockwiserotation of a key is operative to urge the locking lever 1164 into theupward position shown in FIG. 116 with the further arm 1168 in the firstposition.

If the key remains in the unlocking position, the exemplary embodimentof the locking mechanism is operative to prevent the locking arm fromrotating downward. In this described unlocked state of the lockingmechanism, the locking mechanism may be operative to prevent the keyfrom being removed from the locking mechanism.

When the key is rotated counterclockwise to a locked position, thelocking mechanism is placed in the armed state and the locking mechanismis operative to enable the key to be removed and. As discussedpreviously, when the locking mechanism is in the armed state the lockingarm is capable of moving downwardly responsive to the further arm 1168being rotated to the second position.

In the exemplary embodiment the slot 1166 may be located adjacent anedge of the tambour door 1112 rather than in the center of the door.When the tambour door is moved to the closed position, envelopes, cashor other relatively thin flexible items could become caught between thefront of the door 1163 and the front 1165 of the frame. However, withthe locking arm 1164 engaging the slot 1166 adjacent the side of thetambour door, the presence of such items caught between the door is lesslikely to interfere with the engagement of the locking arm 1164 in theslot 1166.

Referring back to FIG. 111, the exemplary embodiment of the automatedbanking machine may include a bracket 1190 positioned beneath theacceptor device 1100. Both the bracket 1190 and the cassette 1104 may belocated within the chest 102 of the automated banking machine. Thecassette 1104 may be operative to removably slide into engagement withthe bracket to place the reservoir 1106 of the cassette 1104 directlyunderneath the acceptor device 1100.

In this described exemplary embodiment, the bracket may include thepreviously described pin 1192. When the side of the frame 1140 with theaperture 1176 has reached the end of the bracket, the pin 1192 isaligned to enter the aperture 1176 in the frame (FIG. 116) which causesthe lock to change from the armed state to the locked state.

As shown in FIG. 118, when the cassette is slid into the bracket 1190,an upwardly directed portion or handle 1196 on the tambour door isoperative to contact a downwardly extending arm 1198 of the bracket. Thearm 1198 is operative to block the movement of the handle into thebracket. As a result the tambour door is urged to slide relative theframe 1140 into an open position as the cassette is inserted into thebracket. When the door is in the open position, deposited items from theacceptor device 1100 are operative to pass through the frame of thecassette into the reservoir 1106.

When the cassette 1104 is inserted into the bracket 1190, the arm 1198of the bracket is operative to engage with a slot 1121 (see also FIG.115) in the tambour door 1112. When the cassette is removed from thebracket, the arm engaged with the slot of the tambour door is operativeto urge the tambour door to slide to a closed position. As discussedpreviously, because the pin 1192 of the bracket previously placed thelocking mechanism into a locked state, when the tambour door slides tothe closed position as the cassette is being removed, the tambour doorengages with the locking mechanisms and becomes locked shut. In thisdescribed exemplary embodiment, the tambour door is operative to remainlocked shut until a key is rotated in the locking mechanism to place thelocking mechanism in an unlocked or armed state.

In the exemplary embodiment, the cassette may be inserted with thetambour door either opened or closed. However, when the cassette isremoved, the tambour door is closed and locked. In addition when thecassette is in the armed state prior to being inserted into the bracket,the tambour door may be opened or closed many times with out the tambourdoor being locked shut. In addition the exemplary embodiment of thecassette and bracket is operative enable the cassette to only beinserted into the bracket in one direction. As shown in FIG. 112, thereservoir or frame may include a projection 1201 on the side of thecassette opposite the locking mechanism 1160. If a user attempts toinsert the cassette in the wrong direction (i.e. with the end of thecassette with the projection 1201 entering first), the bracket isoperative to contact the projection 1210 and prevent the cassette frombeing inserted.

In the exemplary embodiment, the top of the chest may includetherethrough an opening positioned between the cassette 1104 locatedinside the chest and the acceptor device 1100 located above the chest.Exemplary embodiments of the machine may include acceptor devices whichare capable of sliding outwardly from the frame of the machine into aservice position. When the acceptor device slides outwardly, the openinginto the chest may be exposed which could provide access through theopening to items in the cassette.

An exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine is operative toprevent the acceptor device from moving outwardly to a service positionwhile the cassette remains inserted in the bracket with its tambour dooropen. As shown in FIG. 118, the bracket may include a movable hook 1202.Before the cassette 1104 is inserted into the bracket 1190, the hook isoperative to automatically rotate or otherwise move downwardly inresponse to a biasing force such as gravity, spring or other force. Inthis downward position, the hook is not operative to interfere with themovement of an acceptor device out of its docked position above thebracket and chest. However, as shown in FIG. 119. When the cassette 1104is inserted into the bracket 1190, the cassette is operative to contactthe hook 1202 and urge the hook 1202 to rotate or other wise moveupwardly. In an upward position, the hook is operative to engage withportions of the acceptor device and prevent the acceptor device frommoving outwardly into a service position which exposes an opening intothe chest and cassette of the machine. To enable the acceptor device tomove outwardly to a service position, the cassette 1104 may be removedfirst to allow the hook 1202 to move out of engagement with the acceptordevice.

In exemplary embodiments, the chest 102 may have a generally “L” shapedcontour as shown in FIG. 3 with a taller portion 1204 adjacent arelatively shorter portion 1206. In this described exemplary embodiment,the acceptor device may be positioned above the shorter portion 1206 andadjacent an upper side wall 1208 of the taller portion. The cassette maybe mounted to the bracket within the shorter portion 1206 of the chest.An upper surface of the shorter portion 1206 may includes the opening1210 between the cassette within the chest and the acceptor devicemounted outside the chest. As described previously, the acceptor devicemay be operative to move items through the opening into the cassette. Inthis described exemplary embodiment the cash dispenser of the machinemay be mounted within the taller portion 1204 of the chest.

Thus the new automated banking machine system and method achieves one ormore of the above stated objectives, eliminates difficulties encounteredin the use of prior devices and systems, solves problems and attains thedesirable results described herein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity,clarity and understanding, however no unnecessary limitations are to beimplied therefrom because such terms are used for descriptive purposesand are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, the descriptions andillustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention is notlimited to the exact details shown and described.

In the following claims any feature described as a means for performinga function shall be construed as encompassing any means known to thoseskilled in the art to be capable of performing the recited function, andshall not be limited to the features and structures shown herein or mereequivalents thereof The description of the exemplary embodiment includedin the Abstract included herewith shall not be deemed to limit theinvention to features described therein.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of theinvention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and theadvantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures,devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems,equipment, operations, methods and relationships are set forth in theappended claims.

1. An apparatus including: an automated banking machine fascia bezel inoperative connection with a fascia of a cash dispensing automatedbanking machine, wherein the bezel includes an opening, wherein theopening is configured to permit access therethrough to a hardware deviceof the machine, wherein the bezel includes a movable gate, wherein thegate is operative to move between a closed position, wherein accessthrough the opening is blocked, and an open position, wherein accessthrough the opening is provided, wherein the gate is operative to movetoward the open position responsive to relative movement of the hardwaredevice toward the bezel during engagement of the hardware device and thegate, wherein the gate is operative to automatically move toward theclosed position responsive to relative movement of the hardware deviceaway from the bezel during engagement of the hardware device and thegate.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the gate includes atleast one rib, wherein the at least one rib enables the gate to moverelative to the bezel during engaging movement of the hardware devicerelative to the bezel.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 2 whereineach rib includes an angled engaging surface, wherein each angledengaging surface is configured to engage the hardware device.
 4. Theapparatus according to claim 3 wherein each angled engaging surface isoperative to relatively slide in abutting contact with the hardwaredevice during engaging movement of the hardware device relative to thebezel.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein each angledengaging surface comprises a lower outer surface that extends upwardlyat an acute angle from a rear face of the gate.
 6. The apparatusaccording to claim 1 wherein the gate includes a front face and a rearface, wherein the front face includes an indicator, wherein when thegate is in the closed position the indicator is operatively positionedto inform a potential machine user about an unavailable service.
 7. Theapparatus according to claim 6 wherein the indicator comprises anout-of-service message.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 1 whereinthe gate in the open position is located above the opening.
 9. Theapparatus according to claim 8 wherein the gate in the open position islocated behind the bezel.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 1 whereinin the closed position the gate physically blocks the access through theopening.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the bezelincludes at least one slot, wherein the gate includes at least oneprojection, wherein each projection is operative to slide in arespective slot during movement of the gate.
 12. The apparatus accordingto claim 11 wherein the bezel includes a first slot adjacent a first endand a second slot adjacent an opposed end, wherein the gate includes afirst projection adjacent a first side and a second projection adjacentan opposed side, wherein the first projection extends through the firstslot, wherein the second projection extends through the second slot. 13.The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the gate is operative toslide downwardly toward the closed position via gravity.
 14. Theapparatus according to claim 1 wherein the bezel is removably mounted tothe fascia.
 15. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the machineincludes a frame, wherein the hardware device is operative to engaginglyurge the gate upwardly away from the opening when the fascia is movedrelative the frame toward the hardware device.
 16. The apparatusaccording to claim 1 wherein the hardware device is operative toengagingly urge the gate upwardly away from the opening during insertionof the hardware device into the machine.
 17. The apparatus according toclaim 1 wherein the hardware device comprises a card reader device. 18.The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the machine comprises an ATM,wherein the ATM includes a currency dispenser and currency notes,wherein the currency dispenser is operative to dispense the currencynotes from the ATM, wherein the fascia includes at least one inputdevice and at least one output device, wherein the at least one inputdevice and the at least one output device are accessible to a machineuser.
 19. A method comprising: (a) moving relative to each other ahardware device mounted within a cash dispensing automated bankingmachine and a bezel in operative connection with a fascia of themachine; (b) responsive to (a) urging with the hardware device, a gatein movable connection with the bezel to move from a closed positionwhich blocks access to the hardware device through an opening in thebezel to an open position which enables access to the hardware devicethrough the opening in the bezel.
 20. The method according to claim 19,wherein in (a) the hardware device and the bezel move relatively towardeach other further comprising: (c) moving relatively away from eachother the hardware device and the bezel; (d) responsive to (c) enablingthe gate to move from the open position to the closed position.
 21. Themethod according to claim 20, wherein the gate includes at least onerib, wherein (b) including the hardware device contacting the at leastone rib.
 22. The method according to claim 21 wherein each rib includesan angled engaging surface, wherein in (b) each angled surface engagesthe hardware device.
 23. The method according to claim 22 wherein in (b)each angled engaging surface relatively slides in abutting contact withthe hardware device.
 24. The method according to claim 23 wherein in (b)each angled engaging surface comprises a lower outer surface thatextends upwardly at an acute angle from a rear face of the gate.
 25. Themethod according to claim 20 wherein the gate includes a front face anda rear face, wherein the front face includes an indicator, wherein in(d) when the gate is in the closed position the indicator is operativelypositioned to inform a potential machine user about an unavailableservice.
 26. The method according to claim 25 wherein in (d) theindicator comprises an out-of-service message.
 27. The method accordingto claim 20 wherein in (b) the gate in the open position is locatedabove the opening.
 28. The method according to claim 27 wherein in (b)the gate in the open position is located behind the bezel.
 29. Themethod according to claim 20 wherein in (d) in the closed position thegate physically blocks the access through the opening.
 30. The methodaccording to claim 20 wherein the bezel includes at least one slot,wherein the gate includes at least one projection, wherein in (b) and(d) each projection is operative to slide in a respective slot duringmovement of the gate.
 31. The method according to claim 30, wherein thebezel includes a first slot adjacent a first end and a second slotadjacent an opposed end, wherein the gate includes a first projectionadjacent a first side and a second projection adjacent an opposed side,wherein the first projection extends through the first slot, wherein thesecond projection extends through the second slot, wherein (b) and (d)include the first and second projections sliding within the respectivefirst and second slots.
 32. The method according to claim 30, wherein in(d) gravity urges the gate to slide downwardly toward the closedposition.
 33. The method according to claim 19, further comprising:prior to (a) mounting the bezel in removable connection with the fascia.34. The method according to claim 19, wherein the machine includes aframe, wherein (a) includes moving the fascia with respect to the frameof the machine towards the hardware device.
 35. The method according toclaim 19, wherein the machine includes a frame, wherein (a) includesmoving the hardware device with respect to the frame of the machinetowards the fascia.
 36. The method according to claim 19, wherein in (a)the hardware device comprises a card reader device.